Orchid Nervilia punctata (purple) 2 tuber for gardens, and rareorchid collection

Orchid Nervilia punctata (purple) 2 tuber for gardens, and rareorchid collection
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Nervilia Cultivation Guide
Nervilia is a fascinating genus of terrestrial orchids found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in Asia, Australia, and Africa. These orchids are known for their seasonal appearance—many species send up flowers before the single leaf appears, often after dry periods or forest fires.

Here's how to cultivate Nervilia successfully:
🌿 General Information

Type: Terrestrial orchid

Growth habit: Deciduous with a dormancy period

Common species: Nervilia aragoana, Nervilia plicata, Nervilia punctata, Nervilia crociformis

Native habitat: Forest floor, often in leaf litter or shaded areas

🌞 Light

Filtered light or dappled shade is ideal (think forest understory).

Avoid direct sunlight, especially during hot seasons—it can scorch the delicate leaf.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

Warm temperatures: 20–30°C during growing season

Cooler during dormancy: 15–20°C is fine

High humidity (60–80%) during the growing period

Good air circulation is essential to prevent mold or rot.

💧 Watering

Growing season: Keep the soil evenly moist, never soggy.

Dormant season: After the leaf dies back, reduce watering significantly or stop until new growth appears.

Let the pot dry between light waterings during dormancy.

🌱 Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining terrestrial orchid mix, such as:

Leaf mold

Fine bark

Charcoal

A bit of perlite or pumice

A shallow wide pot is preferred due to the rhizomatous spreading growth.

Some species do well when planted directly in shaded garden beds with good organic matter.

🌸 Flowering

Flowers appear before or without leaves, usually at the start of the rainy season or after temperature changes.

The blooms are short-lived, often lasting only a few days.

After flowering, the single leaf emerges and photosynthesizes for several months.

🌱 Propagation

Mostly propagated through rhizome division during dormancy.

Seeds are very tiny and require specialized conditions (symbiotic fungi) for germination—difficult without a lab.

🛠️ Tips for Success

Mimic the natural seasonal cycle: dry dormancy, followed by a warm wet growing period.

Be patient: some species may not flower every year.

Avoid disturbing the plant frequently, especially during dormancy.