How to Care for Ludisia Discolor, the Jewel Orchid
Ludisia orchids, often called Jewel Orchids, are a little different from many other orchids. While most orchids are grown for their flowers, Ludisia plants are loved primarily for their beautiful foliage.
Their velvety, dark leaves are streaked with shimmering veins that can appear red, copper, or gold depending on the light. The plants do produce delicate sprays of small white flowers, but it’s the foliage that makes them stand out as unique houseplants.
While Jewel Orchids are treasured for their striking leaves, many orchid lovers also enjoy growing flowering varieties. If you're looking to expand your collection, browse our wide selction of Orchids to discover everything from beginner-friendly favourites to rare and unusual species.
The good news is that Ludisia orchids are generally easy to grow indoors and adapt well to typical home conditions.
If you're new to growing orchids, don't let the name fool you. Jewel Orchids are cared for quite differently to many flowering orchid species, making them a fascinating addition to any indoor plant collection. If you'd like to understand the fundamentals of orchid care first, our Ultimate Orchid Care Guide is the perfect place to start before exploring the unique needs of Ludisia.
Light
Ludisia orchids naturally grow along the forest floor in Southeast Asia, where they receive soft, filtered light through the tree canopy.
Because of this, they prefer lower light conditions than many other orchid types. A spot with bright, indirect light works best, but they can also tolerate slightly shadier areas in the home.
Too much direct sunlight can damage their delicate leaves, causing fading or scorch marks. If your plant is near a bright window, placing it a little back from the glass or behind a sheer curtain can help soften the light.
Signs your Ludisia needs more light:
- Leggy growth
- slow growth
- Fewer flowers
Signs of too much light:
- Faded Leaf Colour
- Brown patches or leaf scorch
Watering
Unlike many orchids that grow on trees, Ludisia orchids are terrestrial, meaning they grow in soil rather than clinging to bark.
Because of this, their watering needs are closer to those of typical houseplants.
The potting mix should be kept lightly moist but never soggy. Water when the top layer of soil begins to dry out, making sure excess water drains freely from the pot.
Allowing the soil to stay overly wet for long periods can lead to root rot, so good drainage is essential.
Helpful tip: Jewel orchids prefer consistent moisture, so try not to let the soil dry out completely.
Understanding how watering differs between orchid species is one of the biggest steps towards growing with confidence. Our Ultimate Orchid Care Guide explores watering techniques, feeding schedules and seasonal care for a wide range of orchids.
Humidity
Ludisia orchids enjoy moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50-70%.
While they tolerate normal household humidity better than many tropical orchids, they will thrive with a little extra moisture in the air.
You can increase humidity by:
- Using a humidity tray
- Running a small humidifier
- Grouping plants together
Good airflow is also helpful, especially in more humid environments.
Many tropical orchid species appreciate similar growing conditions. If you're interested in exploring other rewarding orchids for indoor growing, browse our Beginner-friendly Orchids collection to discover varieties that thrive in the home.
Temperature
Jewel orchids prefer warm temperatures, similar to those in their tropical habitat.
Ideal growing conditions include:
- Daytime: 18-26°C (65-80°F)
- Night: Slightly cooler temperatures
They are relatively tolerant of indoor conditions but should be kept away from cold drafts, open windows in winter, or sudden temperature drops.
Soil and Potting Mix
Because Ludisia orchids grow in the ground rather than on trees, they prefer a moisture-retentive but well-draining mix.
A suitable mix may include:
- Orchid bark
- Potting soil
- Perlite or pumice
- Sphagnum moss
This combination provides drainage while still retaining enough moisture for the plant’s roots. Our Expertly blended Single Orchid Repotting Mix, makes a perfect fit for Ludisia Orchids.
Repotting is typically needed every 1-2 years or when the potting mix begins to break down.
Choosing the right growing medium helps support healthy roots and long-term growth. Explore our Plant Care & Accessories collection for premium orchid bark, specialist repotting mixes, clear nursery pots and carefully selected essentials designed to help your orchids thrive.
Feeding
Like most orchids, Ludisia plants benefit from regular feeding during their active growth period.
A balanced liquid houseplant or orchid fertiliser diluted to half strength can be applied every 2-4 weeks in spring and summer.
During the cooler months, when growth slows, feeding can be reduced.
Flowering
While foliage is the main attraction, Ludisia orchids do produce charming flowers.
Typically blooming in late autumn or winter, the plant sends up tall spikes with clusters of tiny white blossoms that contrast beautifully with the dark leaves.
After flowering, the flower spike can be trimmed back near the base.
Although Ludisia orchids are mainly grown for their beautiful foliage, many orchid species are prized for their spectacular blooms and fragrance. If you're curious to discover some of the most beautifully scented varieties, explore our Fragrant Orchids Guide.
Final Thoughts
Ludisia orchids are a wonderful option for plant lovers who want something a little different. Their stunning foliage, compact size, and forgiving nature make them an excellent choice for growing indoors.
With the right balance of gentle light, consistent moisture, and warm temperatures, your Jewel Orchid can remain a striking houseplant all year round.
We hope this guide has given you the confidence to care for your Ludisia and enjoy its beautiful foliage for years to come. If you're ready to discover more, browse our selection of Orchids to explore our carefully selected collection, visit our Beginner-friendly Orchids if you're just starting out, or find everything you need to support healthy growth in our Plant Care & Accessories collection. For even more expert advice, don't forget to explore our growing library of orchid care guides.
