Calanthe - Hardy Ground Orchid

The exotic, tropical orchid shape can belong to your garden with these yellow or yellow and burgundy blooms. Hardy through most of the UK, down to -10°C.

If you're a big orchid fan, we've got good news for you: these orchids grow happily outdoors here in the UK, so you can bring your orchid obsession to your outdoor space too, whether that's a garden, patio or balcony. Just make sure they get a bit of shade and shelter from the wind! These Calanthe Orchids bloom yellow or yellow and burgundy, bringing a splash of cheerful colour in spring, and with that characteristic Orchid shape, you'd be forgiven for thinking they were strictly tropical - but this Genus also grows in subtropical areas too, and will be quite happy in many British gardens.

Evergreen / semi-evergreen perennial

Flower, bushy growth

Spring flowers, foliage year-round

Scientific Name
Calanthe spp. (beautiful flower)

Common Name
Christmas Orchid, Hardy Ground Orchid, Japanese Hardy Orchid, Prayer Plant Orchid, Yellow Hardy Orchid, Burgundy Hardy Orchid

Origin
Calanthe orchids are found in tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas, sub-Saharan Africa, Southeastern Asia and Oceania

Pruning Tips
No pruning is necessary here.

Wildlife Value
Elsewhere in the world, Calanthe orchids have specific pollinator relationships (e.g. with carpenter bees), however here in the UK they will attract a wider range of insects, including bees, butterflies and possibly other flies or beetles too.

Positioning
Your orchid will appreciate shelter from the wind and a spot in partial shade.

Water
Make sure the soil drains well, and water in dry weather. Especially important while the plant is in flower to prevent flowers drying out.

Soil
Loamy soils with neutral pH will keep this orchid happiest

Food
Will benefit from a feed every few weeks in spring and summer, ideally with a balanced orchid feed. 

Pet-safe
Yes, this plant is considered non-toxic for pets.

Sprouts Top Tips
Make sure the plant doesn't dry out when it's blooming or the flowers won't last as long. In its natural habitat, this orchid can grow in the ground or on trees, so make sure the soil you plant it in drains well - this plant isn't used to being waterlogged at all.