About Spathoglottis unguiculata (Labill.) Rchb.f.
Spathoglottis orchids are evergreen, terrestrial herbs in the orchid family. Members of this genus have crowded pseudobulbs positioned just below the soil surface, along with a small number of large, pleated leaves. A flowering stem emerges from a pseudobulb, and bears medium-sized, colourful flowers. These flowers open widely, with sepals and petals that are all similar in size to one another; petals are usually broader than sepals, and the outer surface of sepals is hairy. The labellum of the flower has three lobes: the side lobes are more or less upright, and the middle lobe has a claw near its base. Spathoglottis orchids most often grow in moist locations within forests, grasslands and swamps, typically in areas with bright sunshine. They can be found growing naturally across India, China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea, New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, Borneo, and Cape York Peninsula in Australia. One species of Spathoglottis is endemic to Australia, and three species are endemic to China. These orchids are easy to cultivate, and are highly sought after for their large, colourful flowers. They are common plants in tropical gardens, and require partial daily sun exposure, well-drained loamy soil, and regular watering.
