Stenoglottis Orchids, Big and Small

These charming flowers belong to two related orchids, Stenoglottis longifolia and Stenoglottis woodii. They’re some of the easiest African orchid species to grow. The first half-dozen photos show Stenoglottis longifolia. Even though its blooms are small, this species can grow into a big plant. The flowers feature brilliant purple spots and a fringed lip. Dozens of blooms crowd onto each flower spike, and newly emerging buds continue to open for months.

Stenoglottis longifolia, side view of orchid species flowers, grown indoors in San FranciscoStenoglottis longifolia, orchid species flower buds emerging from flower stem, grown indoors in San FranciscoStenoglottis longifolia, orchid species flowers, grown indoors in San Francisco

Stenoglottis longifolia, side-view close-up of orchid species flower, grown indoors in San FranciscoStenoglottis longifolia, orchid species flowers, grown indoors in San FranciscoStenoglottis longifolia, orchid species flowers, grown indoors in San Francisco

Stenoglottis woodii, in the photos below, is a miniature. It’s a much smaller plant than its relative, but its light pink flowers are almost the same size. My plant fills a 2.5 inch (6.4 cm) flowerpot, and with limited indoor growing space, I always appreciate a mini orchid.

Stenoglottis woodii, flowers and buds on growing flower spike of miniature orchid species, grown indoors in San FranciscoStenoglottis woodii, flowers of miniature African orchid species, grown indoors in Pacifica, CaliforniaStenoglottis woodii, close up of flower of miniature African orchid species, grown indoors in Pacifica, California

Stenoglottis woodii, leaves and flowers of miniature African orchid species, grown indoors in Pacifica, CaliforniaStenoglottis woodii, flowers of miniature African orchid species, grown indoors in Pacifica, CaliforniaStenoglottis woodii, flowers of miniature African orchid species, grown indoors in Pacifica, California

Both species grow as terrestrials in southern Africa. With thin leaves, they need high humidity. Grow in bright light, and be careful that any direct sun doesn’t burn them. Give them regular water and fertilizer while they’re growing and blooming. Stenoglottis are deciduous. Their leaves die back over winter, while their fleshy roots lay dormant underneath. Keep them cooler and drier, but don’t let the potting mix dry completely. New leaves will emerge in spring, when watering can be increased again. Big or small, Stenoglottis orchids are delightful and easy to grow.

Explore posts in the same categories: Dormancy, Fertilizing, Growing, Intermediate Growers, Mini Orchids, Photos, Watering

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