Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ludisia
BeginnerA jewel orchid valued for its velvety dark red leaves with gold veins rather than flowers.
About
Ludisia (Lus.) is a genus of orchids that was thought to contain just one species, Ludisia discolor, commonly referred to as jewel orchid. A second species, Ludisia ravanii, from the Philippines, was described in 2013. Ludisia discolor is native to Southern China, Northeast India, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Myanmar, and often cultivated.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Ludisia
The Ludisia lives 5+ years.
Size of the Ludisia
The Ludisia grows to 10-20cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Ludisia
The ideal temperature for the Ludisia is 18〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern China, Northeast India, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
10-20cm
Temperature
18〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Strong light spoils the leaf color, so grow it indoors in low light away from direct sun. A humidity-retaining terrarium also suits it.
Watering
Drying out is its worst enemy, so water before the potting mix dries completely and keep it evenly moist at all times.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 18-28°C. As a terrestrial orchid of tropical rainforest floors, it should not be exposed to low temperatures.
Soil & Repotting
Pot it in a moisture-retentive mix of sphagnum moss and leaf mold so the medium stays evenly damp.
Pests & Cautions
It prefers high humidity (70-90%), but a sealed enclosure can become stuffy, so air it out from time to time.
Ludisia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Ludisia?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Ludisia?
The ideal temperature for Ludisia is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Ludisia?
The average lifespan of Ludisia is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Ludisia get?
The mature size of Ludisia is 10-20cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Ludisia?
The price of Ludisia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 18, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 11–12
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Ludisia (group) (Zone 11 to 12)
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: A.Rich.
Synonyms: Dicrophyla, Myoda, Haemaria
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The family Orchidaceae is listed entirely in CITES Appendix II (except for the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium and certain species, which are in Appendix I). Cultivars and hybrids are subject to family-level regulation; however, artificially propagated specimens may benefit from simplified trading procedures under the Appendices.
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.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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