Black Jewel Orchid | Ludisia Discolor

Native to southeast Asia, this Orchid naturally grows under the forest canopy. While we think this plant has a beautiful bloom, it is unlike most other Orchids grown in our homes, as the Jewel Orchid is prized for its foliage rather than its flower. The Black Jewel Orchid features deep velvety black leaves with pink pinstripes that appear to be hand painted. 

Unlike many orchids that we may be familiar with, such as Phalaenopsis (the "moth" orchid) or cattleya (the “corsage” orchid), Ludisia discolor, or Jewel Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid and is not an epiphyte. Terrestrial means that Ludisia orchids grow on land, unlike epiphytes which grow on tree branches in nature and are typically grown in a chunky bark mix in our homes.

Average Size

(Including Nursery Pot)

4" Nursery Pot: 8" H x 8" W

Care Guide

Light

Jewel Orchid's thrive in medium indirect light. Avoid lighting extremes, such as direct sun and dark corners. Direct sunlight can burn these plants, causing their vibrant color to fade. Jewel Orchid's in the wild are found growing on the floors of tropical rainforests. This environment can be mimicked in the home by placing the plant in a shaded area, or a spot which receives medium to bright indirect light.

Water and Soil

Jewel Orchid's like to be kept evenly moist. These plants do not like their soil to dry out, and like most all plants, can experience root rot if their soil remains too wet or soggy. This plant should be watered once the top most layer of soil becomes dry. Amending a standard well-draining potting soil with peat moss or coco coir will help to keep your plants roots evenly moist, while the addition of perlite will ensure that proper drainage and root aeration is provided.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant prefers room temperatures between 65 degrees F and 75 degrees F. Temperatures shouldn’t drop below 60 degrees as this could damage the foliage. Cold, drafty areas should be avoided. This plant prefers moderate to high humidity levels. If your home is on the drier side, misting your Jewel Orchid a few times a week will provide humidity.

Our Happy & Healthy Guarantee

Frond & Folia guarantees that the plant you receive will arrive in happy and healthy condition, and we take extreme care in packaging and shipping to ensure this. We are proud to report that over 99% of our orders to date have been delivered in happy and healthy condition. If you have concerns about shipping during cold weather, please reference our Winter Shipping Insurance.