Malaxis latifolia (syn. ophrydis)

Please Note: These orchids are entirely dormant during this winter season.

This is a terrestrial orchid species native to Southeast Asia. It features beautiful broad green leaves that have longitudinal ribbing with a purple underside. The base of the plant is also purple. The deep purple 1/4-inch flowers typically emerge at the top of the growth during the summer. There seems to be no pests that like to attack this plant. We have never seen bugs on a latifolia yet!

There can be literally 100 to 150 flowers on a spike, and the flowers of this species are self-pollinating. Once the growth has finished flowering, it will eventually lose its leaves as a new growth emerges at the base. We are currently offering mature, flowering-size plants.

Grow this species in low to medium light under Phalaenopsis conditions for the best results. Water as the moss approaches dryness and fertilize once every third or fourth watering with Green Jungle Orchid Food.