Source: Wikimedia Commons
Spathoglottis
BeginnerSpathoglottis plicata
A hardy terrestrial orchid from Southeast Asia with purple-pink flowers lasting a long time outdoors.
About
Spathoglottis, commonly known as purple orchids or 苞舌兰属 is a genus of about fifty species of orchids in the family Orchidaceae. They are evergreen terrestrial herbs with crowded pseudobulbs, a small number of leaves and medium-sized resupinate flowers on an upright flowering stem. The sepals and petals are all similar to each other and are white, yellow, pink or purple. Species of Spathoglottis are found from eastern and south-eastern Asia to Australia and some Pacific Islands.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Spathoglottis
The Spathoglottis lives 10+ years.
Size of the Spathoglottis
The Spathoglottis grows to 30-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Spathoglottis
The ideal temperature for the Spathoglottis is 15〜35℃.
Basic Info
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
15〜35℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes a sunny spot. In warm regions it can be planted in the garden as a landscape orchid.
Watering
Water generously. Grown in a well-draining mix, it should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Temperature & Overwintering
A tropical orchid that handles heat well at 15-35°C. Very tough, but move it somewhere that stays warm during cold periods.
Soil & Repotting
Use a humus-rich, well-draining mix, in the ground or a large pot. It reaches 30-80cm, so allow a roomy pot.
Fertilizer
Fertilize generously. It keeps flowering in succession, so do not let it run short of nutrients.
Spathoglottis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Spathoglottis?
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 Spathoglottis?
The ideal temperature for Spathoglottis is 15〜35℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Spathoglottis?
The average lifespan of Spathoglottis is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Spathoglottis get?
The mature size of Spathoglottis is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Spathoglottis?
The price of Spathoglottis 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: Spathoglottis plicata Blume
Synonyms: Spathoglottis vieillardii, Spathoglottis wariana, Spathoglottis plicata f. alba, Spathoglottis rosea, Phaius rumphii, Spathoglottis plicata var. micholitzii, Spathoglottis augustorum, Spathoglottis spicata
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
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