Calanthe reflexa - Garden orchid

Calanthe reflexa is a rare, semi-hardy, fragrant terrestrial orchid with a flowering stem composed of refined flowers with pearly white sepals and petals and a pink and white lip. It blooms in summer and its long green leaves form beautiful clumps. It should be grown in bright shade, in thick humus, in a very sheltered location.

This terrestrial orchid comes directly from the mountains of Japan, where it is found along streams, on moist slopes or even directly in small streams and their flooded surroundings during the summer monsoon. It is well-adapted to the cold and is one of the hardiest species in its genus. This plant develops from tightly packed pseudobulbs around a rhizome, vaguely resembling the body of a shrimp. It flowers in summer (from July to August), along 4 to 5 stems measuring 40 cm (16in) in height, producing magnificent bicoloured, fragrant flowers, with variable colours ranging from lavender to pearly pink and white. The flower consists of 3 sepals and 3 petals, one of which is called the lip. It is often this floral part that is astonishing in orchids. The lip of Calanthe reflexa is elongated, curved downwards and consists of 3 dark lavender lobes. The semi-evergreen leaves are light green, beautifully pleated and 15-25 cm (6-10in) in length, 5-8 cm (2-3in) in width.

This orchid prefers cool undergrowth and likes acidic soils, rich in humus and moist in summer, even occasionally waterlogged. It likes warmth in protected and bright locations, but never direct sunlight. In regions with mild winters, it will retain its foliage; elsewhere, its leaves will be damaged by frost and regenerate in early spring. The "rhizomatous" crown will slowly produce suckers until it forms beautiful clumps, but it will take at least 3 years to obtain 4-5 inflorescences. An exceptional plant for the experienced gardener. Plant Calanthe reflexa in a protected location, in light and moist undergrowth, or even near water sources, in the company of arisaemas, ferns or hostas.

When you receive your orchids, handle them with care: these plants produce few roots and are delicate!