Pterostylis curta
blunt greenhood
A terrestrial orchid to 30cm tall with basal rosettes of oval dark-green leaves to 10cm long, 2-6 per plant. Single, nodding flowers in spring, up to 3.5cm tall, are green with a brown lip and appear on green spikes which can reach a maximum length of 30cm
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 | Green | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green | Green | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming, Columnar upright
- Genus
Pterostylis are terrestrial orchids with tubers producing small rosettes of round to linear leaves. Solitary, hood-shaped green and brown flowers are borne on spikes from each rosette
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- New Caledonia, Austr.
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in terrestrial orchid compost in full light, with shade from hot sun and night temperatures between 8 and 10°C; water sparingly only once the growth point emerges, increase watering as leaves develop and use orchid fertiliser when in full growth. Reduce watering when leaves start to yellow and dormancy starts, dormancy lasts 2-3 months when temperatures should be kept at 20-25°C with occasional misting only. Repot during the dormant period.
Propagation
Increase by separating and potting on new tubers during dormancy
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required, remove spent flower spikes as necessary
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.