Coelogyne asperata 'Holy Flame'

This is an individual listing of a very large specimen plant from our collection. Mature plants produce pairs of broad, pleated (plicate) leaves atop rounded, “goose-egg” pseudobulbs. In season, arching sprays of ~2" (5 cm), fragrant, waxy flowers cascade gracefully over the pot rim. Each inflorescence can carry numerous blooms, creating a striking display that lasts approximately 2–4 weeks. Under good conditions, this species may flower twice per year, typically in spring and fall.

Origin & Habit
C. asperata is widely distributed throughout Malesia and Papuasia, including Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, the Moluccas, Java, the Philippines, New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands. In nature, it grows primarily as an epiphyte in humid lowland to montane forests—often along rivers or in swampy and limestone-influenced habitats—from near sea level up to approximately 1,900–2,000 meters.

A fascinating historical note: in parts of Myanmar (Burma), this species was once considered sacred. According to local folklore, collecting plants from the wild was strictly forbidden, with severe penalties for those found in possession. Thankfully, those days are long past.

Potting
Performs best in an open, moisture-retentive mix. We recommend (and use) New Zealand sphagnum moss for optimal results.