Calanthe triplicata - Garden orchid

Calanthe triplicata is a rare terrestrial orchid with vigorous growth. It is a non-hardy, fragrant plant, with a flowering stem composed of numerous refined small flowers with pure white sepals and petals in summer, during hot weather. Its long green leaves form beautiful clumps. It should be grown in bright shade, in thick humus, and protected during winter.

This terrestrial orchid is native to Southeast Asia, Eastern Australia, and islands in the Western Pacific (South China, India, Australia, New Guinea, Pacific Islands). This plant grows from fleshy, green pseudo-bulbs tightly packed around a rhizome, vaguely resembling the body of a shrimp. It produces 4 to 5 straight stems, 80cm (32in) in height, covered with magnificent small white to pale pink flowers from July to August. Each stem carries a maximum of 40 flowers, 5cm (2in) in diameter. The flower consists of 3 sepals and 3 petals, one of which is very different, called the labellum (lip). It is often this floral part that is astonishing in orchids. The labellum of Calanthe triplicata is elongated, curved downwards, and formed by 4 divergent lobes. The evergreen, dark green, leaves are nicely pleated, and measure up to 60cm (24in) in length and 12cm (5in) in width. Each clump is formed by 4 to 10 leaves.

In nature, this orchid of cool undergrowth likes acidic soils, rich in humus, and cool in summer, occasionally even saturated with water. It likes warmth, protected and bright locations, but never direct sunlight. This orchid, which is quite easy to grow in our climates, should be stored in a cold greenhouse during winter. The "rhizomatous" crown will slowly produce suckers until it forms beautiful clumps; expect to wait at least 3 years to obtain 4-5 inflorescences. An exceptional plant for experienced gardeners. Plant Calanthe triplicata in a protected location, sheltered from the scorching sun, on the terrace or even near ponds, alongside arisaemas, ferns, or hostas.