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Habenaria leucostachys
White-Flowered Bog Orchid
| This large Orchid group includes many you can grow outdoors in temperate climates. Some of the flowers have a strap-shaped lip, earning the genus' name -- from the Latin habenula, for a narrow strap or rein. Flower spikes form at the tips of slender, leafy stems, bearing from 1 large to several small blossoms -- usually green and/or white, also yellow, orange, red or pink. The popular Habenaria radiata (Egret Flower) braves temperatures as low as 20º F and produces enchanting feathery blossoms. Although most plants thrive in conditions closest to their natural habitat, United States growers have trouble cultivating native American Habenaria species. Plant away from scorching sunlight, in neutral to acid, fibrous soil with lots of leaf mold. Keep constantly moist while growing, but avoid getting water on the leaves. Will not tolerate salt buildup. The tropical species need a minimum 60º F when resting, 65º F in growth. Others tolerate lower temperatures. When leaves wither after flowering, water less, just enough to keep roots from shriveling. Repot when two new shoots have emerged, and grow in moderate to heavy shade, watering carefully at first. Grow from seed or by division. |
With slender spurs nearly twice as long as the lips, white blossoms unfurl up the length of a 16-inch stalk.
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Attributes - Habenaria leucostachys
Plant Type: Perennial
Bloom Season: Early Spring through Early Fall
Flower Color: White
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 3 ft. to 4 ft.
Width: 4 ft.
Sunlight: Partial Sun, Shade
Climate: Zones 9, 10, 11
Notes: Thrives in Wet Soil. Container Plants. Susceptible to Aphids, Mealybugs, Rust, Spider Mites, Whiteflies.
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