Description
Calanthe fissa (also called 'Fissured Calanthe', among many other common names) is a terrestrial orchid species native to tropical and subtropical Asia, from India to China and Japan. It grows in moist forests, grasslands, and along streams at elevations of 500–2,500 m. It has a single, fleshy, oblong or lanceolate leaf and a single flower with a white or yellowish-green labellum.
Uses & Benefits
Calanthe fissa is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments such as colds, fever, and headaches.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Calanthe fissa is white to yellow with three petals and three sepals. The seed is a small, round, black seed. The seedlings are small, round, and green.
Cultivation and Propagation
Calanthe fissa is a terrestrial orchid that is best grown in partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Propagation is usually done by division in early spring or by seed. Sow the seeds in a cold frame in the fall or in the spring, and the plants will flower in the second year.