Purple Haze Native Orchid

Purple Haze Native Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata 'Purple Haze') is a tropical ground orchid that multiplies into lush clumps of pleated green leaves, 30 to 60cm high and about 30cm wide. Vibrant purple flowers open year round in warm climates, and in spring and summer in cooler parts of Australia. It grows naturally in the rainforests of North Queensland and across the Pacific islands, and it is an easy-care orchid for garden soil.

Why you'll love it

• Vivid purple flowers. Rich purple blooms appear year round in warm climates, and in spring and summer further south.
• A real orchid for the garden bed. Unlike many orchids it grows in the ground, with no mounting or bark needed.
• It forms lush clumps. The plant multiplies on its own, so the leafy display thickens from year to year.
• Borders, pots or indoors. It suits garden beds, containers outside and pots indoors.
• Easy to divide. When a clump gets too big, you can separate the bulbs and plant them elsewhere.

Where it works best

Tropical borders and mass planting. Plant 30cm apart in drifts for a lush, flowery edge in subtropical and tropical gardens, in dappled shade or a sunny spot.

Moist sunny spots and pond margins. In the wild it grows in seasonally flooded, moist soils, on creek banks and near ponds. In gardens it likes regular water and free-draining soil.

Pots indoors and out. A container on a patio or balcony, or a pot inside a bright room, brings tropical colour to small spaces.

Growing Purple Haze Native Orchid in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade, in a frost free spot that enjoys humidity. It suits tropical and subtropical gardens, and in cooler regions it is best in a pot that can be sheltered from frost. The more sun the plant has, the more water it needs to flower well.

Soil. Plant in free-draining soil. A garden bed enriched with compost works well, and in pots use a quality potting mix. Mulch after planting.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks. For longest flowering and lush new growth, provide extra water during dry periods and feed with a diluted fertiliser monthly.

Pruning. No pruning is needed beyond removing dead leaves and finished flower stems. If clumps become too large, dig the plants up and gently separate the bulbs to plant elsewhere.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Purple Haze Native Orchid as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a small clump of leaves and starts to flower as it settles in. Plant it in free-draining soil and keep it moist.

Our grower supplies the tube, and supply comes and goes. A sold out tube just means the grower has none right now: press the notify button on the page and we will email you the day it returns.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse our tropical plants
• Orchid care for Australian gardens
• Designing a lush tropical garden
• Plants for subtropical climates

Common questions

How often will it flower?

Year round in warm climates, and in spring and summer in cooler parts of Australia. Extra water in dry spells and a monthly diluted feed keep the flowers coming.

Does it need frost protection?

Yes. It needs a frost free position and enjoys humidity, so in cooler regions grow it in a pot and shelter it through winter.

How do I divide a crowded clump?

Dig the plants up and gently separate the bulbs, then replant them elsewhere. Do it when the clump is overcrowded and fresh growth is starting.