Ludisia Discolor problems

No. Ludisia discolor is one species commonly called a jewel orchid, while growers also use that name for other terrestrial orchid genera such as Macodes and Anoectochilus. Check the botanical label because light and growing-medium needs vary.

Give it intermediate, filtered light or bright shade. A north- or east-facing window can work indoors; protect the velvety leaves from hot direct sun.

Let the surface of its terrestrial mix begin to dry, then water and drain the pot. Keep some moisture below the surface, but never leave the roots sitting in saturated compost or a full saucer.

Check for too much direct sun, a root zone that has dried for too long, or a mix that stays waterlogged. Change one condition at a time and inspect the creeping stems before adjusting fertilizer.

NC State Extension tags the exact species as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and also tags it as non-toxic to horses. The source does not establish safety for rabbits, birds, turtles, or tortoises, and its classification should not be applied to other jewel-orchid species.

Propagate Ludisia Discolor from healthy stem or root divisions during active growth.

Use use a moisture-retentive but airy terrestrial orchid medium. A peat-free houseplant compost or loam blended with fine-to-medium orchid bark and a small amount of sphagnum suits this creeping ground orchid better than a very coarse epiphytic bark mix by itself. A good mix includes Start with peat-free houseplant compost or a light loam-based mix., Add fine-to-medium bark for air space and a small amount of sphagnum to help retain even moisture., Use a shallow pot with drainage holes so creeping rhizomes can spread without sitting in water. Choose a shallow, wide pot with open drainage. The medium should hold some moisture around the shallow roots while letting excess water escape quickly; do not keep the rhizomes in waterlogged compost.