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Goodyera pusilla is a beautiful terrestrial orchid, often referred to as a "jewel orchid," that is highly sought after for its distinctive and ornamental foliage. Native to parts of Southeast Asia, it is a perfect plant for a terrarium or vivarium due to its specific care requirements.
Here is a detailed guide for caring for Goodyera pusilla:
Light:
Low to medium indirect light. In its natural habitat, it grows on the forest floor and is accustomed to very low light conditions.
Avoid any direct sunlight, as it will quickly burn the leaves and cause them to lose their vibrant coloration.
The plant's deep green leaves with their red veins and silver mid-stripe are most striking in lower light.
Humidity:
Extremely high humidity is a must, with an ideal range of 60-90% during the day and even higher at night.
This is why it is best grown in a terrarium or vivarium where a consistently high humidity level can be maintained.
Low humidity will cause the leaves to shrivel and the plant to decline.
Watering:
The roots should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
The plant is a terrestrial orchid, so it needs a free-draining mixture that will not hold stagnant water, which can lead to root rot.
Allow the surface of the medium to dry slightly between waterings, but never let the plant completely dry out.
Soil/Substrate:
Use a well-draining, airy, and open medium that mimics its natural habitat on the forest floor.
A mix of sphagnum moss, perlite, fine orchid bark, and horticultural charcoal is a great option.
The plant can also be grown in a mixture with some peat moss, but good drainage is key.
Temperature:
This jewel orchid prefers warm temperatures, with an ideal range of 15-30°C (59-86°F).
It is sensitive to extreme temperatures and drafts.
Fertilizer:
As an orchid, Goodyera pusilla does not require heavy feeding.
You can fertilize sparingly with a weak, balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., at quarter strength) during the growing season (spring and summer).
Other Tips:
Growth Habit: This is a small, creeping terrestrial orchid. It is known for its creeping rhizomes, which can be divided to propagate new plants.
Foliage: The leaves are the main feature of this plant, starting as vivid green and maturing to a deep green with intricate red veins and a silver stripe down the center.
Terrarium Life: Because of its specific needs for low light and high humidity, it is an excellent and popular choice for a terrarium. It pairs well with other jewel orchids and plants with similar care requirements.
