Japanese name: コウトウシラン（紅頭紫蘭） Scientific name:Spathoglottis plicata
[Overview]
A perennial growing to 1 m tall, found in sunny grasslands.
The pseudobulbs are broadly conical.
Several leaves grow from the base, lanceolate, 30–120 cm long, with conspicuous lengthwise wrinkles on the surface.
A raceme bears 5–25 flowers rather densely.
The flowers are 2.5–3 cm across; the sepals and lateral petals are oblong, and the lip is 3-lobed with a pair of yellow protrusions at the base.
The flower color is usually wisteria-purple to bluish purple, but white and pink also occur.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by division or from seed.
It prefers a sunny, well-drained place.
Keep the minimum winter temperature at 10°C or above.
In subtropical to tropical regions, if the environment suits it, it grows well even when left alone and flowers all year round.
For potted plants, water thoroughly from spring to autumn when the soil surface dries, and keep it on the dry side in winter.
For plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
In addition to base fertilizer, apply liquid fertilizer 1–2 times a month from spring to autumn, and place slow-release fertilizer on the soil.
Pests and diseases include spider mites and slugs.
