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HouseplantsConservatory Greenhouse

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 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Orange White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1A
Botanical details
Family
Orchidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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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