Macodes petola

Macodes petola, commonly known as the Jewel Orchid, is a strikingly beautiful orchid species native to Southeast Asia. It is renowned for its ornamental, glossy, dark green leaves, which feature intricate gold or silver veins, giving the plant a "jewel-like" appearance, hence the name "Jewel Orchid."

Key Features:
Leaves: The most distinctive feature is the leaves, which are thick, leathery, and adorned with a network of veins that often appear golden or silver. The contrast of dark green with the metallic veins makes it visually stunning.
Flowers: The flowers of Macodes petola are small, typically yellow-green, and don't tend to be the focal point of the plant. The leaves are usually the primary attraction.
Growth Habit: It's an epiphytic orchid, meaning it typically grows on trees in its native habitat, but it can also be grown in soil in cultivation.

Growing Conditions:
Light: They thrive in bright, indirect light, making them perfect for indoor environments like windowsills or terrariums.
Watering: They prefer humid conditions and should be watered regularly, but not left sitting in water. Keeping the humidity high is key to their success.
Temperature: Moderate warmth is ideal, typically between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F).
Soil: A well-draining orchid mix works best.
If you're growing Macodes petola, they make for stunning ornamental plants, often used in decorative arrangements due to their unique appearance.