Epipactis thunbergii x gigantea

The Epipactis thunbergii x gigantea is a terrestrial orchid resulting from cross-breeding between an Asian species and an American species. It is a vigorous variety, with numerous floral buds that bloom into quite showy flowers, ranging in colour from orange to bronze, with a yellow lip marked with orange. They blossom for several weeks starting from June. To acclimate it, provide it with a light, moist, humid soil that is not waterlogged, rich in humus, and slightly acidic. 

The Epipactis thunbergii x gigantea belongs to the orchidaceae family. It is the result of cross-breeding between Epipactis thunbergii and Epipactis gigantea. The former is a species native to Japan and colder regions of Northeast Asia. The latter, locally known as Stream Orchid, is native to the western states of the United States and northern Mexico. The Epipactis thunbergii x gigantea is a perennial plant with fleshy rhizomes, reaching a height of 70 to 80 cm and a width of 40 to 50 cm. Its deciduous vegetation emerges from the ground in spring and disappears in autumn. It consists of stems with 4 to 12 sheathing and lanceolate leaves measuring 5 to 15 cm long. Flowering occurs from June to August and can be more or less early, depending on the climate. The flower spike bears up to 15 flowers with a diameter of 4 cm. Each flower has three sepals and two petals. The lip is cup-shaped with a pointed protuberance. The flowers range from shades of orange to bronze, with a yellow lip marked with orange. The flowering is followed by forming a pendulous capsule measuring 2 or 3 cm long, containing thousands of tiny seeds.

The Epipactis thunbergii x gigantea is a robust plant not afraid of the cold. Very beautiful in flower beds or on the banks of water points, this perennial can also be grown in pots. In the garden, it prefers moist soil and makes an excellent streamside plant in a lightly shaded area. Despite its original appearance, it is also a plant with a natural look, easy to integrate into the garden. Combine it in a mass planting of moist to humid soil with willowherbs, meadowsweets, Japanese primroses, and astilbes that appreciate the same conditions and make beautiful subjects. Don't forget about Osmund ferns as well.

When you receive your orchids, handle them with care: these plants produce few roots and are delicate!