Pleione formosana
windowsill orchid bulb
Homegrown in the UK, each rounded pseudobulb of Pleione formosana usually produces a solitary bloom in spring. A soft blend of pink and lilac, the flowers have a white lip, which is variously mottled with brown and plum-pink. After the flower starts to fade, a folded leaf unfurls, and new pseudobulbs start to develop at its base, which in time will result in a bigger clump.
How to care for Pleione formosana:
Plant bulbs with about two-thirds of each bulb sitting above the compost to prevent rot. Space bulbs 10-15cm (4-6in) apart in the garden, or place three bulbs per 15cm (6in) pot if growing in containers. They are not fully hardy, so provide winter protection by keeping potted plants in a cool, dry greenhouse or conservatory, avoiding any moisture over winter.
Reduce watering during dormancy, then gradually resume as new shoots appear in spring. Bright, indirect light and a well-draining, slightly acidic compost will help them thrive and produce their delicate, orchid-like flowers.
Reduce watering during dormancy, then gradually resume as new shoots appear in spring. Bright, indirect light and a well-draining, slightly acidic compost will help them thrive and produce their delicate, orchid-like flowers.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.15m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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This bulb dies back after flowering each year and enters a period of rest ahead of regrowth the following season.
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Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
1 × bulb
£8.99
Delivered by early February
2 + 1 FREE bulbs
£17.98
£5.99 each
Delivered by early February
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