Jewel Orchid (Ludisia discolor) Care: Mix, Light, and Rootless Stems

Nwe Lay's Ludisia discolor struggling in soil mix with red leaf spots. Expert: assume not virus (no cure, no Ludisia virus reports). Likely environmental. Use Pro-Mix (perlite + peat) or comparable. Keep just moist—never dry or soggy. Likes humidity, low light, intermediate temps (60–80°F). Above 85°F = decline. High light = reddish leaves (anthocyanin)—reduce light.

Follow-up: Can use coco peat + perlite (1:1)? Expert: maybe, but strain dust particles, triple-rinse in RO/rainwater to remove salts, flush every 2–3 waterings.

Follow-up: Stems have no roots. Expert: will root in mix if kept moist. Stabilize with twist tie buried in mix. Some grow in bell jars for humidity.