If you love orchids with stunning leaves, you’ve probably heard of macodes. These rare and beautiful orchids are known as jewel orchids, prized for their incredible foliage rather than their flowers. Their leaves shimmer with intricate veins of gold, silver, or copper, looking like living embroidery. This guide will help you understand how to care for these special plants so you can enjoy their beauty in your own home.
Macodes – Rare and beautiful orchids
Unlike most orchids that are grown for their blooms, macodes captivate with their leaf patterns. The most common species, Macodes petola, has velvety green leaves with a network of glowing golden veins. They are terrestrial, meaning they grow in soil on the forest floor in their native Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Because of their specific needs and slow growth, they remain a treasured find for collectors.
Why Choose a Macodes Orchid?
You might choose a macodes if you appreciate unique foliage. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Year-Round Interest: While flowers come and go, the spectacular leaves are always on display.
- Compact Size: They are perfect for small spaces like terrariums or windowsills.
- Conversation Starter: Their almost metallic, luminous patterns never fail to draw attention.
- Rewarding Challenge: Successfully growing one feels like a real gardening achievement.
Perfect Growing Conditions for Your Macodes
Recreating their natural, humid forest floor habitat is key. Getting these conditions right is the secret to a healthy plant.
Light Requirements
Macodes need bright, indirect light. Direct sun will quickly scorch their delicate leaves. Think of the dappled light under a jungle canopy.
- An east-facing window is often ideal.
- A south or west window should have a sheer curtain for protection.
- They also do very well under artificial grow lights.
Temperature and Humidity
This is where many new growers face challenges. Macodes need consistent warmth and high humidity.
- Temperature: Aim for 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops.
- Humidity: They thrive at 60-80% humidity. Most homes are too dry, so you’ll likely need to provide extra moisture.
To increase humidity, you can use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray with water, or grow it in a sealed terrarium. Grouping plants together also helps create a microclimate.
Soil and Potting Mix
Never use regular potting soil. They need a loose, airy, and well-draining mix that retains some moisture without becoming soggy.
A good recipe you can mix yourself includes:
- Fine orchid bark (for structure)
- Sphagnum moss (for moisture retention)
- Perlite or pumice (for aeration)
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (to keep the mix fresh)
A shallow pot with excellent drainage holes is best, as their roots like to spread out horizontally.
Daily and Seasonal Care Guide
With the right setup, ongoing care becomes much simpler. Here’s your routine.
Watering Your Macodes Correctly
Watering is a critical skill. The goal is to keep the mix evenly moist but never waterlogged or bone dry.
- Use room-temperature water, preferably rainwater or distilled water, as they are sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
- Water when the top layer of the mix just begins to feel dry.
- Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes, then let the excess drain completely.
- Reduce watering slightly in the winter when growth slows.
Feeding for Healthy Growth
These orchids are not heavy feeders. A weak, balanced fertilizer applied regularly is better than a strong dose.
- Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (like 20-20-20) diluted to 1/4 strength.
- Apply it every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer).
- Skip fertilizing in the fall and winter months.
- Flush the pot with plain water every few months to prevent salt buildup.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning is minimal. Simply remove any leaves that have died back naturally using sterile scissors. This keeps the plant tidy and prevents potential for disease. Occasionally, a flower spike may appear with small, modest white flowers. You can enjoy them or cut the spike off to let the plant focus its energy on the fabulous foliage.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with great care, issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot.
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check your potting mix and watering frequency.
- Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or, sometimes, fertilizer burn. Boost the moisture in the air.
- Faded or Bleached Leaves: This indicates too much direct sunlight. Move the plant to a shadier spot.
- Leggy Growth or Small Leaves: The plant isn’t getting enough light. Gradually move it to a brighter location.
- Pests: Watch for mealybugs or spider mites, especially in dry air. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
Propagating Your Macodes
You can propagate macodes by division, which is the safest method. It’s best done when you repot in the spring.
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully brush away the old mix.
- Look for natural divisions where the plant has multiple growth points (each with its own roots).
- Using a sterile knife, you can seperate these sections.
- Pot each new division into its own container with fresh mix.
- Keep them in a warm, humid environment while they establish.
FAQ About Macodes Orchids
Are macodes orchids hard to grow?
They have specific needs (high humidity, consistent moisture), but are not overly difficult if you can meet those requirements, especially in a terrarium.
Do macodes need a terrarium?
While not an absolute necessity, a terrarium makes providing high, stable humidity much easier and is highly recommended, especially in dry climates.
How often do macodes flower?
Mature plants may produce a tall spike with small, white flowers annually or semi-annually. The flowers are interesting but not the main attraction.
What’s the difference between macodes and other jewel orchids?
“Jewel orchid” is a common name for several genera with beautiful foliage, including Ludisia, Anoectochilus, and Macodes. Macodes are known for their particularly luminous, metallic-looking leaf veins.
Where can I buy a macodes orchid?
Check with specialty orchid growers, reputable online plant shops, or at orchid society shows. They are becoming more available but are still considered a specialty plant.
Growing macodes is a rewarding experience that connects you to a unique part of the plant world. By focusing on humidity, gentle light, and a proper growing medium, you can create a thriving environment for these living jewels. Pay close attention to your plant’s signals, and you’ll be able to enjoy its intricate beauty for many years to come.