Gastrochilus distichus

Gastrochilus distichus (Lindl.) Kuntze, commonly known as the “Distichous Gastrochilus,” is a small epiphytic orchid native to the Himalayas (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Assam, Sikkim), Tibet, and Yunnan, China. It typically grows at elevations of 1520–2700 meters in shady, moss-covered rainforests. The plant is pendant in habit, with thin, clustered stems sheathed in leaves, and its foliage is arranged in two ranks (“distichous”), well adapted to its cool, moist montane environment.

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, indirect light. Shade works well — avoid strong direct sunlight.

• Temperature: Cool to intermediate conditions suited to montane forests; avoid intense heat or frost.

• Humidity: High humidity is desirable, as natural habitat is moist rainforest with moss. Good air movement helps.

• Watering: Keep substrate moist but not waterlogged. It thrives in damp, shaded environments with regular moisture.

• Substrate / Mounting: Best grown epiphytically — mounted on bark or trees mimics its natural setting. If potted, use well-draining mix with bark and moss.

• Flowering: It blooms in spring with 2-4 small flowers per inflorescence. The flowers are light green with reddish-brown spots.