Gastrochilus japonicus

Gastrochilus japonicus (Makino) Schltr. is a miniature epiphytic orchid native to East Asia — Japan (including the Ryukyu Islands), Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Korea. It grows on tree trunks or branches of pines and broad-leaf trees in mountainous forest regions at elevations of about 200-2000 meters.

Features:

The plant features a short stem wrapped by overlapping leaf bases, with fleshy, linear-oblong leaves that are somewhat curved (“falcate”), pointed, and have an apex that is unequally bilobed.

It blooms in autumn, producing axillary, dangling inflorescences that are shorter than the leaves, with 2-7 small flowers per bloom. The flowers are about up to 2 cm in diameter, yellow-green to light yellow, often with spots or markings inside.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sun, especially afternoon sun, which can burn leaves.

• Temperature: Prefers intermediate to cool-warm conditions. Daytime temperatures around 18-29 °C, cooler nights are acceptable. Protect from frost or very cold.

• Humidity & Airflow: High humidity (~ 50-80%) helps; good air circulation is important to prevent rot or fungal issues.

• Watering: Keep the growing medium moist but allow it to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure roots or mounting medium do not stay soggy. More frequent water during hot or active growth periods.

• Substrate / Mounting: Mounting on wood or bark or using airy mediums like bark + sphagnum works well; mounting better replicates natural habitat.

• Flowering & Seasonal Care: Blooms in autumn; ensure good warmth, humidity, and moderate light to encourage flowering. During winter or lower growth periods reduce watering somewhat but don’t allow the plant to dry out completely.