Jewel orchid care: 10 Best Step-by-Step Guides for Beginners

The Jewel Orchid Anoectochilus formosanus, more commonly known as the Jewel Orchid, is a beautiful plant that is perfect for adding to your collection or terrarium display. It is native to Taiwan and has stunning mottled leaves with a copper pink underside. This orchid can be difficult to grow due to its high humidity needs and preference of bright light, but with proper care, you’ll soon have beautiful blooms to enjoy! Read on to learn how to care for the Jewel Orchid in your home or office environment.

Jewel orchid care guide

jewel orchids varieties

Ludisia discolour: Known for its deep red or maroon leaves with silver veining.

Macodes petola is recognised for its striking metallic or iridescent foliage.

Anoectochilus chapaensis features intricately patterned, silver-marked leaves.

Goodyera pubescens is notable for its elegant, green, and silver-striped leaves.

Ludisia discolour var. alba: A variation of Ludisia discolour with white or cream-coloured leaves

Ludisia discolour var. nigricans: a variation with darker, nearly black foliage

Anoectochilus formosanus displays unique, dark green leaves with silver patterning.

Understanding the Basics:

Understanding the basics of caring for Jewel Orchids is crucial for their well-being. These exotic plants, belonging to the Ludisia and Anoectochilus genera, are known for their jewel-like leaves that captivate plant enthusiasts. To start, it’s essential to grasp their preferences, including low to medium light conditions and well-draining soil. By laying this foundation, you set the stage for a successful and fulfilling journey in cultivating these beautiful orchids.

Light requirements

Anoectochilus formosanus, more commonly known as the Jewel Orchid, is a beautiful plant that is perfect for adding to your collection or terrarium display. It is native to Taiwan and has stunning mottled leaves with a copper pink underside. This plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and will thrive in either indirect sunlight or low-light conditions.

Temperature requirements

The temperature in your home can have a big impact on how happy and healthy your plant is. The best temperature range for the Anoectochilus formosanus, the jewel orchid, is between 68-74 degrees Fahrenheit. For hotter climates (above 90 degrees), you will want to keep the jewel orchid near a cool window where it can get natural sunlight during the day and room temperature at night. For cooler climates (below 50 degrees), you will want to keep the jewel orchid near a sunny window where it can get natural sunlight during the day and slightly warmer than room temperature at night.

Humidity

Jewel orchids thrive in high humidity environments. To keep them healthy, mist their leaves with water and place their pots near a humidifier or under the kitchen faucet. The potting soil should also be moist at all times so it can absorb any extra water.
You may want to take the plant out of its pot before watering it if you’re concerned about getting dirt on your floor.

Watering

It is important to keep the Jewel Orchid’s soil moist. Allow the potting mix to dry out a little before watering again. Water until excess water runs out of the bottom of the pot. Do not allow water to pool in the pot, as this will cause root rot and plant death.

Container Size Matters:

Selecting an appropriate container size is a critical consideration for the well-being of Jewel Orchids. Choose a pot that allows for future growth but isn’t excessively large. A snug fit encourages the orchid to focus on root development, promoting overall plant health. Balancing the container size ensures that your Jewel Orchid has sufficient space for its roots to spread and access essential nutrients while preventing the risk of waterlogged soil. Container size plays a pivotal role in creating an environment that supports the orchid’s growth and vitality.

Well-Draining Soil Mix:

Choosing a well-draining soil mix is essential for the success of Jewel Orchids. Opt for a blend that provides excellent aeration and drainage, preventing waterlogging. A mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss is commonly used. This ensures that water moves through the soil efficiently, reducing the risk of root rot and allowing your Jewel Orchid’s roots to breathe. A well-draining soil mix lays the foundation for a healthy root system and overall thriving plant.

Fertilizing

It is important to fertilize your plants on a regular basis, especially during the summer months when plants are growing most quickly. The best time of day to fertilize is in the morning or evening, so that your plant has enough time to absorb the nutrients. It is also important not to over-fertilize as this can burn your plant’s roots. A good rule of thumb is adding a quarter cup of fertilizer every two weeks and only watering once the top inch of soil has dried out.

Repotting

Jewel orchids should be repotted every 3-4 years. This is done in the spring when the plant starts growing. The best time of year to do this is when the plant’s dormancy period has ended, usually around March or April.
The potting mix should be made up of a well-drained organic soil that retains moisture, but drains quickly. Perlite can also be added to help improve drainage and aeration in the potting mixture.

Pruning and Propagation:

Pruning and propagation are essential practices for maintaining the health and appearance of Jewel Orchids. Trim leggy or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth, promoting a more compact and attractive plant. Additionally, Jewel Orchids can be propagated through division or stem cuttings with roots. Spring is the optimal time for propagation. These practices not only rejuvenate the orchid but also offer the opportunity to expand your collection or share these captivating plants with fellow enthusiasts.

Pests and Diseases

The most common pest of the jewel orchid is mealybugs which can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol. Other pests include scales, thrips, spider mites, aphids, and caterpillars. Jewel orchids are susceptible to fungal infections like black root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To avoid these diseases it’s important to provide good air circulation and keep humidity levels low.

FAQS on Jewel Orchid Care