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{{Taxobox
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Calanthe (Greek for beautiful flower). Orchidaceae. Sub-epiphytal or terrestrial hothouse orchids found in the eastern hemisphere, and sparingly in the western hemisphere.
Scapes erect, many-fld.: Ivs. broad, plaited: fls. white or rose-colored, rarely yellow: pseudobulbs angulate, with grayish green sheaths in the Vestitae section, but absent in the Veratrifoliae section.—Forty to 50 species in tropics of both hemispheres.
Most of the species and the numerous varieties grown are deciduous, losing the foliage about the time of flowering, and, at this season, water is given sparingly until the flowers are cut; then the bulbs are kept in a dry warm place until signs of growth in spring. All calanthes are terrestrial and should be potted each year in fibrous loam, with a small portion of old manure and sand mixed in. Use plenty of drainage as for other orchids, and about 2 inches of soil; secure the bulbs firmly by means of part of the old wiry roots; water very sparingly until active root-action takes place; but, when in full growth, weak manure-water may be given at each watering. The young foliage is very sensitive to sun, and must be shaded as soon as it develops; keep the plants near the glass and give all light possible, and the warmest treatment permitted in orchid culture. They enjoy a little heat, even in summertime, from the pipes at night. The best place to grow calanthes is a sunken, well-heated pit facing south, lowering the plant as the foliage nears the glass. Calantheveratrifolia is an evergreen species and may be treated similarly to the Phaius. Calanthes are easily increased by separation of the bulbs at the time of repotting. Young bulbs are often produced from the apex of old ones; old ones will start again the second year and make increase. (E. O. Orpet.)
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