The Beautiful Rare Orchid You Can Grow Indoors With Special Care

If you're looking to nurture plants indoors through the colder months, there are many options to consider. But if you want to grow something that's rare and delicate, consider the dove orchid (Peristeria elata), also known as the Holy Ghost orchid. With its fragrant, white flowers and dove-shaped interior, this unique species is native to South America and is Panama's national flower. Dove orchids thrive in warm, moderately-humid conditions and can grow up to 3 feet tall, naturally adapting as epiphytes on moss-covered tree trunks, where they absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. However, if you provide the right environment and care, they can also be grown indoors.

The dove orchid's delicate, white blooms resemble doves in flight, making it a prized flower. Though collectors often seek it out, this rare beauty can be hard to find at local garden centers. However, you may be able to find it online on websites like Etsy. To grow a dove orchid indoors, begin with the right pot selection. Dove orchids grow best in small to medium-sized pots to prevent water from stagnating around their roots. Also provide a warm to hot temperature that's at least 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure the room you place your orchid in has adequate lighting, too. These orchids typically thrive in bright, indirect light. If placed in insufficient light, they may become leggy or yellow, while too much light can cause sunburn, so adjusting their position near the window or using a shade may be necessary.

Dove orchids thrive in relative humidity, so misting the plant can be beneficial, especially in drier indoor conditions. However, keep in mind that this needs to be done often, as it's only a temporary solution. You can also use a humidity tray or place your dove orchid inside a plastic enclosure to keep moisture around the plant.

Many common care mistakes can kill your orchid, and one of these is overwatering. Dove orchids are nutrient-demanding when growing, so provide them with adequate water and fertilizer. However, once the plant's rate of growth visibly slows, you can begin to reduce watering and excess fertilizing, but don't allow the roots to be completely dry for too long. Learn how to save an overwatered orchid plant if you're dealing with any watering mishaps. Dove orchids, when bloomed properly, produce pseudobulbs, which are thickened parts towards the base of the plant that help it grow and store nutrients. 

Repotting your dove orchid is crucial for its vitality, especially when the potting medium begins to break down or the plant becomes root-bound. Also trim any dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to encourage fresh growth. Pruning not only improves the orchid's appearance but also helps prevent disease by promoting better air circulation. Successfully caring for indoor orchids, especially dove orchids, can be a bit tricky due to their many unique characteristics. However, while the care requirements may seem overwhelming, these orchids simply need a bit of extra attention to thrive.