Description

Galearis spectabilis is a small plant that may only reach 12" in height including the flowers. It has two oval, fleshy, basal leaves. The helmet shaped or hooded white and lavender to pink flowers form a loose raceme. As is common with most orchids, the flowers are attractive, delicate, intriguing and somewhat alien looking.

Cultivation

Showy orchid is best grown in the shade or in the dappled light of deciduous forests. I prefers a rich, moist environment with a relatively high level of acidity ( pH: 4.5 to 5.5). Its native habitat also includes wooded rocky slopes, making it a good candidate for shaded rock gardens, so long as the plant is not exposed to hot, dry summers. Blooms in late spring or early summer, April to June. Zones 4-7

Propagation

Propagate by gently removing new buds from mature, established plants.

Additional Notes

The name Galearis comes from the greek word galea, meaning helmet. This is a reference to the shape of the flower.