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Calanthe (Calanthe discolor)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Calanthe

Intermediate

Calanthe discolor

A terrestrial orchid native to Japanese mountains, with elegant spring flower spikes.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
15〜30℃
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
20-40cm
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering

About

Calanthe is a large genus of about 220 terrestrial orchid species distributed across Asia, Australia, Africa, and Madagascar. In Japan the native Calanthe discolor (ebine) is the most familiar wild orchid, its common name meaning 'shrimp root' after the jointed appearance of the pseudobulbs. Plants are deciduous or evergreen with large, pleated leaves; upright flowering stems bear many flowers in spring (April–May) in colors including white, pink, purple, yellow, and brown. They prefer bright dappled shade, temperatures of 15–28°C, and humus-rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Japanese native species are cold-hardy and widely grown as woodland garden plants as well as potted orchids.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

Asia, Australia, Africa, and Madagascar, including Japan

Lifespan

10+ years

Size

20-40cm

Temperature

15〜30℃

Humidity

50〜70%

Watering & Fertilizer

Growing Tips

Culture

Can be planted in ground

Light

Partial shade

Bloom

Spring blooming

Cold

Survives Japanese winter

OrchidCalantheJapanese NativeTerrestrial

Calanthe FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Calanthe?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Calanthe?
A

The ideal temperature for Calanthe is 15〜30℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Calanthe?
A

The average lifespan of Calanthe is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Calanthe get?
A

The mature size of Calanthe is 20-40cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Calanthe?
A

Calanthe: watering & fertilizer — −. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Calanthe?
A

The price of Calanthe varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: July 8, 2026

Growing Specifications

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Calanthe discolor Lindl.

Synonyms: Calanthe striata var. discolor, Alismorkis discolor

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS 蘭交配種登録(International Orchid Register) · AOS(米国蘭協会)

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

CITES 附属書II

ラン科 Orchidaceae は科全体が CITES 附属書II(附属書I 該当の Paphiopedilum 属・Phragmipedium 属および特定種を除く)。栽培品種・交配種も科の規制を受けるが、人工繁殖個体は附属書により取引が簡略化される場合がある。

Sources: CITES Appendices (Orchidaceae spp. = Appendix II) / CITES Appendix I Orchid Checklist (Kew/UNEP-WCMC 2019)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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