A Grow Rich (foliage) Quick Scheme with precious forest gems: An easy overview of Jewel Orchid Care

 

What is a Jewel Orchid?

Not every orchid looks like the standard big-winged (or petaled) moth-flower phalaenopsis you see at every grocery store and kitchen countertop around Easter and Mother’s Day. Vanilla, for example, is considered both a “spice” and an orchid. There are even orchids like the Neottia and Corallorhiza that parasitize off fungi rather than producing their own chlorophyll (take that, powdery mildew).

The range of plants in the category “jewel orchid” is broad. Generally, jewel orchids refer to botanical orchids that grow along the detritus of the forest floor, their foliage marked with shimmering veins and often tied to traditional medicine (though it's not advised due to the lack of toxicology research). Many are tropical, preferring humid, warm climates, but they can look wildly different depending on species. Some, like the moody Kuhlhasseltia, lack shimmering veins entirely. Others, like certain Goodyera species, are native to temperate regions including southern Canada.

Different Jewel Orchid Varieties and their Quirks

To keep things simple, here's a breakdown of some popular types commonly cultivated in Western households—mainly for their vivid foliage. These fall into several different genera:

Ludisia (example: Ludisia Discolor “Spiderman”)

One of the easiest to grow. It typically has dark, nearly black leaves with simple lines or red shimmering veins.

Care: Thrives in hot, humid conditions but tolerates ambient home environments well thanks to its thick rhizomes.

Macodes (examples: Macodes Petola, Macodes Sanderiana)

Loved for golden or silver veins that glow subtly. Macodes is easier to care for than its flashier cousins.

Care: Grows well in stable, warm, and humid settings. Avoid overly wet soil. Let it dry slightly between waterings.

Anoectochilus (examples: A. roxburghii, A. formosanus, A. siamensis)

Often called the gold-thread lotus, this genus is more sensitive and less common. Noted for cultural and medicinal significance.

Care: Requires a careful balance between high humidity and well-drained roots. Best kept in ventilated terrariums or near a humidifier.

Dossinia 

Arguably the most dramatic of the bunch, with broad, showy leaves and flashy veins. Very picky with moisture.

Care: Enjoys humidity but must dry out completely between waterings. Watch for rot.

Goodyera

Less ornamental, but far more forgiving. Some species are found in cold climates and tend to grow in thick colonies.

Care: Species-dependent, but usually tolerant of a range of conditions.

Honorable mentions

Kuhlhasseltia and Corybas stand out. Corybas, in particular, looks like a screaming child in bloom. Others like Nephelaphyllum climb, while Cycopogon grows on trees. Nervilia is broad-leafed, and Cystorchis looks like a dark velvet inverse of a jewel orchid.

How to Care for Jewel Orchids

Even with their variety, these orchids tend to enjoy similar conditions, with a few plant-specific tweaks. You can group them in the same terrarium—just make sure more rot-prone species get better drainage.

Pot Size

Forest floors offer different support than your windowsill. Use shallow, wide pots with around 5 cm of soil. If you're using deeper containers, fill the bottom with hydrotons (LECA) to avoid moisture buildup.

Soil and Nutrients

They prefer rich, organic mixes. Compost-heavy peat blends work well. In Canada, a 40:40:20 mix of peat moss, perlite, and horticultural charcoal is common. Coco chips help with drainage for sensitive varieties. Mycorrhizae can be a useful addition. If needed, opt for slow-release fertilizer.

Water

Water only when the soil has dried out completely, top to bottom. Clear pots or visible drainage layers help gauge this. Use rainwater, spring water, or dechlorinated tap water. Aquarium water can work too.

Light

Low to bright indirect light is ideal. Avoid full sun or dark corners. Think of the dappled light of a forest floor.

Heat and Humidity

Comfortable room temps (15–30°C) are fine. Aim for 50–70% humidity. More delicate types prefer higher humidity, especially if roots are drying quickly.

Common Pests and Problems

Spider mites and mildew are the usual suspects. Rot is more frequent, especially in low air circulation. Watch for fading leaves, soft stems, and curled foliage—these can signal watering issues or mineral buildup.

How to Propagate Jewel Orchids 

Most of these orchids naturally form colonies through their rhizomes. You can cut between sections once they’ve grown out a bit. Let the cut dry before repotting. Hardy varieties can be potted directly, while others root better in a sphagnum moss and perlite mix.

Owning your own Jewel Orchids

Orchids have always had a strong cultural pull—used as national symbols across continents and tied to luxury across history. Jewel orchids, though, are more elusive. With climate shifts affecting their natural populations, many species are now rare or endangered.

These plants are delicate, slow-growing, and intensely rewarding. They reflect the fragility and strangeness of nature, and when cared for properly, bring a quiet beauty that’s hard to match.

Want to grow your own? All of our jewel orchids-from Ludisia to Anoectochilus-are propagated in Canada and raised with care in home environments. Visit Bookmark Plant Store to bring one of these rare gems into your home 🌱