Stream orchid Epipactis gigantea
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as stream orchid is a captivating perennial associated with wet habitats. This orchid showcases an alluring display of colors, with its leaves being lance-shaped and having a robust green hue. Its upright stems are adorned with dense clusters of intricately patterned flowers. Each blossom on the stream orchid is fascinating, exhibiting a hypnotic blend of greens, purples, and browns that seem to change when viewed from different angles. The flowers consist of a prominent lip, which can be described as a sort of landing stage for pollinators, and it often takes on a richer, more striking coloration than the other floral parts. Inside the flower, subtle streaks and spots can be detected, enhancing its ornamental appeal. Moreover, the blooms emit a delicate fragrance that adds to their allure, enticing not only human admirers but also various pollinators. The roots of the stream orchid, typically obscured from view, are intricately adapted to its preferred moist environment. Overall, the stream orchid is a plant of beauty and elegance, contributing to the allure of the habitats it thrives in.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Stream Orchid, Giant Helleborine, Chatterbox, Giant Epipactis, Giant Stream Orchid, Giant Helleborine Orchid.
Common names
Amesia gigantea, Epipactis gigantea var. arizonica, Epipactis gigantea subsp. arizonica
ToxicityTo humans
The Epipactis gigantea, commonly known as stream orchid, is not known to be toxic to humans. There is a lack of significant literature indicating that this plant possesses compounds that would lead to poisoning upon ingestion. Therefore, no symptoms of poisoning or toxicity consequences are generally associated with the stream orchid when it comes to humans.
To pets
The stream orchid or Epipactis gigantea is also not recognized as a toxic plant to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, there is no substantial evidence or reports suggesting that pets would suffer from poisoning symptoms upon ingesting parts of this plant. Consequently, no known toxicity consequences are expected for pets that come into contact with or ingest the stream orchid.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Brownish-purple
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Epipactis gigantea, commonly known as the Stream Orchid, has attractive flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and naturalized areas.
- Native Plant Gardening: Being native to Western North America, it is suitable for native plant gardens, promoting regional biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: The Stream Orchid, with its habit of growing in moist areas, can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion along streambeds and water margins.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides nectar for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which is essential for promoting a healthy ecosystem.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, the Stream Orchid is tolerant of drought conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping in dry climates.
- Low Maintenance: It typically requires minimal care once planted in suitable conditions, making it an easy addition for most gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: The Stream Orchid blooms from late spring to early summer, offering seasonal interest and color in the garden during these months.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Epipactis gigantea, commonly known as stream orchid, has shown some capacity to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and other microorganisms.
- Anti-inflammatory: There is some traditional use that suggests this plant may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Analgesic: The stream orchid is believed, in some traditional medicine practices, to possess pain-relieving qualities.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Epipactis gigantea, commonly known as stream orchid, can be used as a natural aesthetic enhancement in water gardens due to its preference for wet habitats and attractive appearance.
- In landscaping, stream orchids can be planted along streambanks or pond edges for erosion control as their root systems help to stabilize soil.
- This orchid can serve as a seasonal indicator plant, as it flowers in late spring to early summer, which can help gardeners plan and synchronize the bloom times of other plants in their collections.
- Stream orchids can be used as educational tools in botanical gardens and nature programs to demonstrate the pollination process, as they attract particular species of wasps for pollination.
- They are ideal subjects for botanical illustrations and photography due to their intricate flowers, providing material for artistic endeavors.
- Orchid aficionados may use stream orchids for hybridizing efforts to create new orchid varieties with unique characteristics.
- The plant can be included in native plant gardens to support local ecosystems, as they are part of the native flora in regions like Western North America.
- Its resilience in wet environments makes the stream orchid suitable for use in constructed wetlands or natural wastewater treatment systems where plants assist in cleaning the water.
- The stream orchid can be used in ceremonial or commemorative gardens due to its striking blooms that can be symbolic of beauty and rarity.
- In science, stream orchids can be the subject of ecological studies, specifically observing their role in their native habitats and their interactions with pollinators and other plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Stream Orchid is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Stream Orchid is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rarity: The Epipactis gigantea, commonly known as 'Stream Orchid,' is not a widely encountered orchid due to its specific habitat requirements, symbolizing uniqueness and rarity in nature.
- Beauty: Like many orchids, the Stream Orchid is admired for its intricate and attractive flowers, representing beauty and aesthetics.
- Adaptation: Stream Orchid is known for its ability to thrive in moist and riparian environments, symbolizing adaptability and resilience in challenging conditions.
WaterThe stream orchid prefers consistent moisture and should be watered once a week with 1 to 2 gallons of water, depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions. During the warmer months or if it's planted in a pot, it may require more frequent watering—twice a week to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Always ensure that the plant is in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
LightStream orchids thrive best in bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight. They can be placed in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade or beneath the canopy of taller plants if kept in a garden setting. Direct midday sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureStream orchids prefer temperate climates with temperatures ranging between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature just above freezing, around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, and a maximum of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing conditions, however, are cool to moderate temperatures within the aforementioned range for optimal growth and flower development.
PruningStream orchids do not generally require extensive pruning, but dead or damaged foliage can be removed as needed to maintain plant health and aesthetics. After flowering, the flower stalks can be cut back to the base to encourage new growth. The best time for any pruning is during the late winter or early spring before the growth season begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilStream orchid thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A recommended mix could consist of loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand in equal parts to promote aeration and moisture retention. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, roughly between 6.0 and 7.0, to suit Epipactis gigantea's preferences.
RepottingThe stream orchid should generally be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. It is best to repot in the spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy and can recover more effectively.
Humidity & MistingStream orchids prefer moderate to high humidity levels, around 40-70%. They thrive in environments that mimic their natural moist and humid woodland habitats, which is essential for their growth and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in a shaded area with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Epipactis gigantea, also known as the stream orchid, begins as a seed, which requires a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi for germination. Once the seed germinates, it develops into a protocorm, a small plantlet that eventually gives rise to roots and a shoot. The shoot grows into a rosette of leaves close to the ground in its first year, and only after one or more years does it send up a flowering stem. Upon maturity, the stream orchid produces a cluster of greenish-brown to reddish-purple flowers that are pollinated by insects, predominantly bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing numerous tiny dust-like seeds, which are then dispersed by wind. Lastly, once seeding is complete, the above-ground parts of the plant may die back, while the underground rhizomes survive to sprout new growth in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The stream orchid, or Epipactis gigantea, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This technique is typically performed in the late winter to early spring, right before new growth begins, ensuring that the plant has the full growing season to recover and establish itself. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant from the ground and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growth point or shoot. These divisions can then be replanted immediately into a moist, well-draining mix. It is essential to keep the newly planted divisions adequately watered and shaded from direct sunlight until they are fully established.
