Coelogyne cristata
crested coelogyne
An epiphytic orchid to 30cm tall, with rounded pseudobulbs, lance-shaped leaves to 30cm long and pendulous sprays of very-fragrant, pure-white flowers to 8cm across with yellow marked lips from winter to spring; over time, may form very large clumps with several hundred fragrant flowers
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Orange White | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Genus
Coelogyne are epiphytic orchids producing pseudobulbs, each bearing 2 leathery pleated leaves and flowers in racemes, mainly from the centre of the new growth in spring and summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in epiphytic orchid compost in pots or baskets and in summer provide good ventilation, bright filtered light, water freely and apply orchid fertiliser at every third watering, mist daily to maintain high humidity; provide good light levels and keep dry in winter
Propagation
Propagate by division of pseudobulbs when plant over-fills the pot and repotting is necessary
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required, remove flowered spikes as necessary
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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