Ludisia discolor, the black jewel orchid, is an orchid species native to Malaysia, Indonesia and Burma. It is a terrestrial orchid, which means it grows in soil and soil-like medium on the ground. In their natural environment, these orchids can be found growing on the forest floor. They are known for their foliage, which is velvety; deep maroon leaves with red veins that run parallel to the center.
It blooms typically from December to February (Winter–early Spring). Flowers are white with twisting yellow columns. Individual flowers are small but grow in clusters on upright stalks. Flowers will open any time from December to February and last a month or more.
Ludisia discolor tolerates intermediate to warm environments. They need high humidity and warm temperatures. Because of these temperature preferences, they can be grown in terrariums or pots. Low to medium light is ideal, and they tolerate extremely low light levels. Jewel orchids are terrestrial and thus prefer equal parts of soil and peat moss with perlite as a drainage additive.