Orchids are plants that usually bear beautiful flowers that come in striking colors and shapes. Jewel orchids, otherwise known as Anoectochilus under the subfamily Orchidoideae, are part of the orchid family but differ slightly from more common orchids. These jewel orchids are commonly found in Asian rainforests, growing in the ground. These orchids prefer high humidity and love soil that drains easily since they are used to thriving in leaf litter. There are some of these kinds of orchids that prefer the lower temperatures while others prefer warmer, more humid climes.

The difference between jewel orchids and the more common orchids lie in the leaves of these plants as well as where the plants grow. While most orchids are grown for their beautiful flowers, jewel orchids are primarily grown due to their leaves.

What Is In The Jewel Orchids’ Leaves?

The leaves of the jewel orchids are a unique velvety texture that renders their colors with more depth. Sometimes, the velvety texture makes for different colors depending on the angle of the viewer. The jewel orchids’ leaves also have very obvious veins that stand out from the base color of the leaves. These veins are what make the foliage of the jewel orchids very unique and rare. The veins’ colors range from deep red to silver and more colors in between. Many of the leaves of the jewel orchids are typically green, from light green to very dark, almost black.

The leaves are usually oblong or heart shaped and seldom long. These types of orchid plants do not grow very tall or very big. Although they also flower, the blooms from these orchids are not as attractive as the leaves. Some flowers are pretty to look at and do have exceptional scents but the leaves take your breath away. To make a jewel orchid plant look bigger, you can pant several pieces together to make an impression of largeness. One great thing about growing jewel orchids is that they are easy to multiply. Some grow from cuttings while others grow beside the mother plant.

Jewel orchids are highly suitable for indoor growing. This is because they like low light conditions as well as high humidity. Some people even grow these types of plants in their bathrooms due to the high humidity generated there. Jewel orchids can be grown more successfully indoors compared to outdoors but a little skill and effort can grow them outdoors as well.

Tags: Jewel Orchids

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