Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Climbers
Exotic (Central and South American) | Moderate Care | Climbers
The reed orchid is not really a climber in the traditional sense, but its tall, cane-like stems grow upright to over a metre and it lends itself to growing against a wall, on a bank or in a raised bed where its clusters of small, brightly coloured flowers can be appreciated at eye level.
The flowers are long-lasting, appearing in dense, rounded clusters at the tips of the stems in shades of orange, red, pink, yellow and purple, and they flower over a very long season, often on and off throughout the year in mild coastal conditions. It is one of the easiest orchids to grow outdoors, far simpler than any orchid you would keep inside. It handles coastal conditions, some wind and the mild winters of St Francis Bay.
60 cm to 1.5 m tall. Forms a gradually expanding clump of reed-like stems.
Moderate.
Raised bed, bank, wall-side planting, container, orchid garden. Excellent for a sheltered, sunny to semi-shaded position where you can enjoy the flowers up close.
Semi-shade to full sun. In a coastal garden it handles more sun than in a hot inland garden. Morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.
Well-drained, open soil with bark or compost mixed in. It is an epiphyte by nature and does not enjoy heavy, waterlogged soil. A mix of potting soil, bark and perlite suits it well.
Moderate. Water regularly through the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter. It does not cope with extended drought.
Feed monthly through the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength.
Remove spent flower clusters. Old, leafless canes can be cut back to the base; new canes will emerge. The clump expands slowly and can be divided when it outgrows its space.
Ask about availability. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right plant for your spot.
