Cheirostylis thailandica

Cheirostylis thailandica is a miniature terrestrial orchid native to Thailand and parts of Yunnan, China, prized for its delicate foliage and unique floral structure. This species thrives in deep shade, high humidity, and well-draining, humus-rich soil, making it suitable for cultivation under intermediate to warm temperatures. Its adaptability and modest care requirements make it a choice specimen for specialized orchid growers.

Detailed Description
Cheirostylis thailandica has a creeping, swollen rhizome about 1 cm in diameter with an erect stem that usually bears 3-4 broadly lanceolate leaves measuring 2-6 × 1.5-2 cm. The leaves are thinly textured and tend to wither by the time the plant flowers. The inflorescence is 11-22 cm tall, pubescent, and bears 3-4 short-pedicelled flowers, primarily olive-green to pale brown with white petals and a white labellum featuring two green spots at its base. The labellum is slightly 3-partite with a saccate hypochile containing two comblike calli, flanked by flabellate, shallowly bilobed epichile lobes.

Caring for Cheirostylis thailandica
Maintain low, diffused light to replicate the species’ native shady forest environment.

Use humus-rich, well-draining substrate and avoid standing water, but keep soil evenly moist throughout the growing season.

Provide intermediate to warm temperatures (typically between 15–25°C), with slightly drier conditions during winter dormancy.

High humidity (60–80%) is recommended for optimal growth, and the microclimate should be stable and sheltered from drafts.

Adaptability
Cheirostylis thailandica adapts well to terrarium or greenhouse environments when its need for shade, humidity, and good drainage is met. It is tolerant of a range of warm conditions but does not withstand prolonged drought or direct sunlight. The plant is deciduous, meaning its leaves may die back before or during flowering, but it recovers quickly with proper care.

Growing Conditions
Found in deep shade of open, evergreen forests at elevations of 1100–1400 meters; often grows on humus-rich soil over limestone hills.

Prefers moist, airy environments and benefits from regular but gentle watering to mimic rainfall in its native habitat.

Grows as a miniature to small terrestrial orchid, making it ideal for culture in pots or specialty orchid beds.

Summary Table
Aspect Details
Habitat Deep shade, evergreen forests, humus-rich limestone soils
Light Low, diffused
Temperature Intermediate to warm (15–25°C)
Humidity High (60–80%)
Soil Well-draining, humus-rich substrate
Watering Steady, evenly moist, drier in winter
Growth habit Miniature terrestrial, creeping rhizome, deciduous
Flowering Olive-green to pale brown, white labellum with green spots
Cheirostylis thailandica’s unique structure and manageable care requirements make it a rewarding orchid for those able to provide specialized growing conditions