Coelogyne chloroptera

Coelogyne chloroptera is a lesser-known species of Coelogyne native to the Philippines. It is a small to medium-sized orchid that produces several fragrant, pale green flowers, each about 2.5 cm in size. This species thrives on trees and rocks at elevations of 1000 to 1500 meters.

What makes Coelogyne chloroptera particularly interesting is its unique coloration, which sits between the green-flowered Coelogyne virescens and the white-flowered species like Coelogyne lactea or Coelogyne huettneriana. Although it is found at relatively high altitudes, its tropical island habitat provides a much warmer and more humid environment compared to similar elevations on a continent.

First described in 1883 by Professor Heinrich Reichenbach, its name comes from the green "wings" on its flowers, a reference to chloroplasts, the green pigment-containing structures in plant cells.

This orchid is hardy and easy to grow under warm, humid conditions with good drainage. It typically blooms once a year, with its flowers lasting for several weeks.

Cultivation Tips

Native to the Philippines at elevations around 1,000 meters, Coelogyne marmorata thrives in warm, humid environments with abundant moisture and absolutely no frost.

One key to successful cultivation is maintaining high humidity. Observing Coelogynes in their natural habitat reveals mosses and ferns growing alongside them on tree trunks and branches—clear indicators of constant moisture. A useful trick for monitoring humidity in your greenhouse is placing a small log inside; if moss begins to grow, the conditions are ideal.