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Description:
The Macodes petola, commonly known as the Jewel Orchid, is a captivating terrestrial orchid prized not for its flowers, but for its dazzling foliage. Native to the humid, shaded rainforests of Southeast Asia—especially Thailand and Malaysia—this orchid stands out with its velvety leaves adorned by intricate, shimmering vein patterns that resemble lightning bolts or filigree.
The leaves, ranging from light to deep green, feature iridescent white or gold-colored veins and grow in a spiral pattern around the stems. Each leaf typically spans 3 to 5 cm in diameter. While the Jewel Orchid occasionally blooms, its small flowers in hues of reddish-brown to white are modest compared to the brilliance of its foliage. Flower spikes may reach up to 25 cm, and after blooming, the flowering shoot naturally dies back, with new shoots emerging to continue the plant’s cycle.
The Macodes petola thrives in terrarium settings, where it can contribute significantly to the lush, natural aesthetic of a rainforest-themed setup. Its vibrant foliage adds both color and texture, while its modest growth habit makes it an ideal companion plant. Though covering the terrarium is not always necessary, it is recommended during early stages of growth or when humidity needs to be stabilized, especially for young, lab-grown specimens.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cultivation | Best grown in a mix of orchid bark and sphagnum moss, or other loose, airy substrates. It can also thrive in pure sphagnum moss. Ideal for terrariums and plant containers, especially during its acclimatization phase from in vitro culture. |
| Substrate | Loose, moisture-retentive, and well-draining—orchid bark and sphagnum moss are ideal. Avoid compact or heavy soils. |
| Watering | Water thoroughly, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings. Never let the soil dry out completely. |
| Humidity | Requires high humidity (70% or more). Perfectly suited to terrarium environments. |
| Light | Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun exposure to prevent leaf burn. Mimics the understory light conditions of tropical rainforests. |
| Temperature | Maintain warm, stable conditions. Ideal temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C. |
| Flowering | Occasional, with spikes up to 25 cm. Flowers are small, in white or brownish-red tones. |
| Special Features | Known for forming lush mats of glowing, veined foliage. A visual highlight in terrariums or plant displays. |
