Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pleione
IntermediateA small deciduous orchid from the Himalayas, blooming with a single large flower in spring, cold hardy.
About
Pleione is a genus of small, deciduous orchids native to high-altitude regions (1,000–4,000 m) in Tibet, southern China, Taiwan, northeastern India, Myanmar, and northern Thailand. Plants grow 10–20 cm; each pseudobulb persists for one season before withering as the new growth develops. In spring (March–April), a single large flower (5–9 cm across) emerges directly from the leafless pseudobulb in pink, white, purple, or yellow with a fringed lip. The species are notably cold-hardy, tolerating near-freezing temperatures. After foliage dies in autumn, pseudobulbs are lifted and stored cool and dry for winter, then replanted in spring. Moderate water and fertilizer during the growing season are sufficient.
Size of the Pleione
The Pleione grows to 10-20cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Tibet, southern China, Taiwan, northeastern India, Myanmar, and northern Thailand, highland regions
Lifespan
Annual from pseudobulbs
Size
10-20cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
A deciduous alpine orchid; keep it in bright partial shade during growth. Avoid strong summer sun and heat.
Watering
Water moderately during growth. Once the leaves die back in autumn, stop watering and let the bulbs dry off and rest.
Temperature & Overwintering
It is cold-hardy to around 0°C. Overwinter the lifted bulbs in a cool, dry place.
Soil & Repotting
A new pseudobulb forms each year while the old one dies, so replant the new bulbs in a well-draining mix every spring.
Fertilizer
Fertilize during growth to fatten next year's bulb. Stop feeding once the leaves die back and dormancy begins.
Dormancy Care
After the leaves die back in autumn, lift the bulbs, overwinter them somewhere cool and dry, and replant in spring (March-April).
Pleione FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pleione?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Pleione get?
The mature size of Pleione is 10-20cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Pleione?
The price of Pleione varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 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: D.Don
Synonyms: Gomphostylis
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.
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