How to Grow Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid
Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid
Spathoglottis plicata 'Purple King'
flowerPurple King is a stunning cultivar of the ground orchid Spathoglottis plicata, featuring deep purple flowers with yellow centers. This tropical orchid is prized for its long-lasting blooms and relatively easy care compared to other orchid species. It grows terrestrially from pseudobulbs and produces tall inflorescences with multiple flowers that bloom sequentially.
When should you plant Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid in your zone?
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Example Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-12; can be grown indoors or in greenhouses in cooler climates
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Get my Purple King Spathoglottis Orchid timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Establishment
2-4 weeksNew pseudobulbs are developing underground or at soil surface; minimal visible growth above ground
Provide moderate watering, bright indirect light, and cool nighttime temperatures (55-65°F) to encourage dormancy break; avoid repotting during this phase
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksShoots emerge from pseudobulbs; long, strap-like green leaves develop; plant increases in size and foliage mass
Increase watering frequency, apply orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks at half strength, maintain warm temperatures (70-85°F), provide bright indirect light, and ensure high humidity
Budding
3-4 weeksTall flower spikes emerge from base of pseudobulbs; buds form and begin to show purple coloration at spike tips
Maintain consistent warmth, humidity, and moisture; avoid moving the plant; continue fertilizing; provide high light levels to intensify purple coloring
Flowering
8-12 weeks per spike (can rebloom multiple times per year)Purple flowers open sequentially along spike, each lasting 4-6 weeks; multiple spikes may bloom simultaneously or in succession
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer, apply bloom-boosting fertilizer with higher phosphorus, maintain humidity and consistent watering, provide excellent air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Post-Flowering/Rest
4-6 weeksSpent flower spikes fade; plant may produce additional growth or enter light dormancy; new pseudobulbs may form
Remove dead flower spikes just above the base; reduce watering slightly; provide cooler nighttime temperatures (55-65°F) for 4-6 weeks to encourage next bloom cycle
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity to above 70%, mist foliage regularly, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until resolved; ensure good air circulation
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab or spray with insecticidal soap; treat affected areas weekly; isolate plant to prevent spread
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Hand-remove with soft brush, apply horticultural oil or neem oil every 7-10 days; improve air circulation and reduce humidity slightly
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Reduce humidity, spray with spinosad or insecticidal soap, improve air circulation; remove affected flowers
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Ensure excellent drainage, reduce watering frequency, improve air circulation with fan, remove affected pseudobulbs, apply fungicide if severe; repot in fresh media if necessary
Uses
Floral Garnish
CulinaryPurple King orchid flowers can be used as elegant, edible decorative garnishes for gourmet dishes and specialty cocktails. The petals are non-toxic and add sophisticated visual appeal to desserts and beverages. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe long-lasting purple blooms are exceptional for fresh floral arrangements, lasting 2-3 weeks in water. They bring tropical elegance to indoor spaces and complement contemporary and traditional décor. [source]
Indoor Plant Decoration
HouseholdPurple King orchids serve as stunning living décor plants for homes, offices, and conservatories. They add exotic tropical beauty and can be displayed in orchid pots or integrated into mixed plantings. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeSpathoglottis orchids attract bees and other pollinators in tropical and subtropical gardens. Growing them supports local pollinator populations and contributes to garden biodiversity. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalVarious Spathoglottis species have been used in traditional Asian medicine for anti-inflammatory and general wellness purposes. Some species contain alkaloids with potential therapeutic properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes for arrangements when the first 2-3 buds have opened; use clean, sharp scissors and cut just above a leaf node. Flowers last 2-3 weeks in a vase with fresh water changed every 2-3 days. Leave at least one spike on the plant to continue blooming. Leave spent spikes on plant for 8+ weeks as they may rebloom from secondary spikes.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Purple King Spathoglottis is one of the few orchid genera that grow terrestrially from pseudobulbs in the ground rather than as epiphytes, making it easier to cultivate than many tropical orchids
- 🌱 A mature plant can produce multiple flower spikes simultaneously and rebloom several times per year under optimal conditions, providing months of continuous purple blooms
- 🌱 Spathoglottis orchids are native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, thriving in warm, humid conditions that mimic their natural rainforest understory habitat
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