Source: Wikimedia Commons
Yellow Calanthe
IntermediateCalanthe striata
A showy Calanthe bearing many large, bright yellow flowers from late winter to spring. Both flowers and plant are larger than C. discolor, the blooms have a citrus-like scent, and it is a key parent of Calanthe hybrids.
About
Ki-ebine is a terrestrial orchid often sold as Calanthe sieboldii; GBIF treats that name as a synonym of Calanthe striata, which is used here as the accepted name. It grows in Japan (including the Ryukyu Islands), Korea, Taiwan and China on the floor of lowland and lower montane forest; in southern Wakayama there were once valleys said to look yellow with its flowers. Small spindle-shaped pseudobulbs sheathed by leaf bases carry broad pleated leaves. From late winter to spring, before the leaves have fully expanded, it raises stems 40-50 cm tall with many yellow flowers about 4-6.5 cm across and a citrus-like scent. It differs from C. discolor in flower colour and size, and where the two grow together the intermediate Takane hybrids arise; its hybrid with C. aristulifera is called Higo. Its large, showy flowers have made it an important parent in Calanthe breeding. In Japan it is sold by wildflower and perennial nurseries.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Yellow Calanthe
The Yellow Calanthe lives Perennial; pseudobulbs persist for several years.
Size of the Yellow Calanthe
The Yellow Calanthe grows to Flower stem 40-50 cm tall; flowers 4-6.5 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (including the Ryukyu Islands), Korea, Taiwan and China
Lifespan
Perennial; pseudobulbs persist for several years
Size
Flower stem 40-50 cm tall; flowers 4-6.5 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer from spring to early summer
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
A forest-floor plant: bright light in spring, then partial shade away from strong sun from early summer.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the surface dries, and do not let it dry out completely in winter.
Temperature & Overwintering
It is more of a warm-region plant than C. discolor; protect it from freezing in cold areas, and keep it cool and airy in summer.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining mix of kanuma or pumice with leaf mould in a fairly deep pot, as it grows large. Repot after flowering or in autumn.
Pests & Cautions
Calanthe readily pick up incurable viruses; sterilise tools between plants and isolate any with symptoms. Choose propagated plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Yellow Calanthe FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Yellow Calanthe?
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 lifespan of Yellow Calanthe?
The average lifespan of Yellow Calanthe is Perennial; pseudobulbs persist for several years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Yellow Calanthe get?
The mature size of Yellow Calanthe is Flower stem 40-50 cm tall; flowers 4-6.5 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Yellow Calanthe?
Yellow Calanthe: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer from spring to early summer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Yellow Calanthe?
The price of Yellow Calanthe varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Calanthe striata R.Br. ex Spreng.
Synonyms: Calanthe bicolor Lindl., Calanthe bicolor var. treutleri Hook.f., Calanthe biloba subsp. treutleri Hook.f., Calanthe citrina Van Houtte, Calanthe discolor f. bicolor (Lindl.) M.Hiroe, Calanthe discolor f. sieboldii (Decne. ex Regel) Ohwi
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The whole orchid family is listed in CITES Appendix II (checked on Species+). International trade requires permits such as export permits, but no registration is needed to buy, sell or transfer plants within Japan. It is native to Japan and is not designated as a Nationally Rare Species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species (checked against the Ministry of the Environment list). Some prefectures restrict collecting wild plants by ordinance, so choose nursery-propagated plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: list of Nationally Rare Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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