Source: Wikimedia Commons
Macodes Petola
IntermediateMacodes petola
A jewel orchid with lightning-like golden lines on leaves, the most popular foliage orchid.
About
Macodes petola is a jewel orchid native to tropical rainforest floors in the Philippines, Borneo, Sumatra, Malaysia, and Java. Plants grow 10–20 cm with dark green, velvety leaves intricately veined with golden lightning-like patterns, making it one of the most visually spectacular foliage orchids. Small white flowers are secondary to the leaf display. Avoid direct sun; medium indirect light is preferred. A mix of sphagnum moss and leaf mold maintains the required moisture levels.
Lifespan of the Macodes Petola
The Macodes Petola lives 5+ years.
Size of the Macodes Petola
The Macodes Petola grows to 10-20cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Macodes Petola
The ideal temperature for the Macodes Petola is 20〜28℃.
High humidity (80–90%) is essential; terrarium or closed-case cultivation is most suitable. Temperatures of 20–28°C are ideal.
Basic Info
Origin
Philippines, Borneo, Sumatra, Malaysia, and Java, tropical rainforest floors
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
10-20cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves, and grow it in low to medium indirect light. A terrarium or sealed case is ideal.
Watering
Keep humidity constantly high and water so the potting mix never dries out. Preventing dryness is the top priority.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 20-28°C and it dislikes cold. Keep it away from spots where the temperature drops.
Soil & Repotting
Pot in a mix of sphagnum moss and leaf mold. Favor moisture retention so the medium stays damp at all times.
Pests & Cautions
High humidity (80-90%) is essential, but a sealed enclosure can get stuffy, so ventilate occasionally to move the air.
Macodes Petola FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Macodes Petola?
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 Macodes Petola?
The ideal temperature for Macodes Petola is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Macodes Petola?
The average lifespan of Macodes Petola is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Macodes Petola get?
The mature size of Macodes Petola is 10-20cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Macodes Petola?
The price of Macodes Petola varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 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: Macodes petola (Blume) Lindl.
Synonyms: Macodes petola var. velutina, Haemaria argyroneura, Macodes petola var. cuprea, Macodes argyroneura, Macodes imperialis, Macodes javanica, Macodes petola var. latifolia, Anoectochilus veitchianus
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · RHS orchid hybrid registration (International Orchid Register) · AOS (American Orchid Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Domestic law: Macodes petola is a Nationally Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora under Japan's Act on Conservation of Endangered Species, and is also designated a Specified Class I species (Cabinet Order, Appended Tables 1 and 3). Collecting wild plants is prohibited (Art. 9). Artificially propagated plants may be transferred, sold, displayed or advertised for sale (Art. 12(1)(ii) and Art. 17), but anyone who transfers or delivers them as a business must notify the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in advance (Art. 30, specified domestic species business).
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
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