What the Heck are Jewel Orchids?!

In my previous posts, I’ve referred mostly to phalaenopsis orchids, as they’re the most common kind owned by plant parents. But there are roughly 28,000 different species of orchids, many of which are becoming more widely accessible to plant enthusiasts. Jewel orchids are one type that now show up frequently at stores and nurseries, and they’re pretty different from phalaenopsis and other orchids. 

Jewel orchids actually consist of many different types—the term refers to orchids whose beauty comes not from their flowers, but from their leaves. Jewel orchid leaves have stunning patterns and variegation, so even though they’re pretty, growers often trim off stalks and buds to encourage more leaf growth.

Ludisia Discolor

The type of jewel orchid I see most commonly for sale online and in stores is the ludisia discolor, which has velvety, dark green leaves and a pinstripe vein pattern. I’ve had one for a couple years and it’s been pretty low-maintenance. Their native environment is the rainforests of Southeast Asia, so like other orchids, they prefer filtered, indirect bright light over direct sun. They prefer warm humid conditions, and they don’t like to dry out. 

Ludisia Discolor blooms

Phalaenopsis orchids, like many other kinds of orchids, are epiphytes, which means they grow on trees, not in soil. That’s why they have such prominent and strong air roots, and why they prefer bark as a growing medium. Jewel orchids, on the other hand, are terrestrial, which means they grow in the ground and in more soil-like mediums. That makes root rot a risk, especially with the amount of moisture these plants require, so a potting medium that retains some moisture but is also light and well-draining is ideal. I typically mix some soil or worm castings with perlite and coco coir or moss. 

Lightning Bolt orchid

My favorite type of jewel orchid is the macodes petola, or the lightning bolt orchid. True to its name, the pattern on its leaves resemble zig-zagging lightning bolts—they barely look real! Jewel orchids, and particularly the lightning bolt, grow slowly, so they work well in terrariums (or in greenhouses or under cloches). Just be sure to air them out every few days, as orchid leaves and roots both require air flow, and this will reduce the risk of root rot. 

If you’re not typically an orchid person or if you’ve been unlucky in the past with phalaenopsis orchids, I’d encourage you to give jewel orchids a try. Keeping them happy is similar to keeping ferns happy (I actually find ferns to be more difficult!) and they are every bit as stunning—and arguably even more exotic—as the blooming orchids we all love.