Is Leek Lotus an Orchid? Flowering Time and Care Methods Explained
Leek Lotus, also known as Rain Flower and Leek Lotus, is a common perennial herbaceous plant in China. Because its flowers are attractive and it has the effects of dissipating heat and detoxifying, it is widely cultivated. So does Leek Lotus belong to the orchid family? When does it bloom? How do you grow it?
Leek Lotus does not belong to the orchid family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Amaryllidaceae family, also known as Rain Flower. It is said that they can sense changes in the weather, usually bursting into bloom in groups before summer and autumn thunderstorms and rain arrive, and can forecast the coming of wind and rain. People praise it as “Rain Flower” (or Rain Grass). Rain Flower is the collective name for four plants: Leek Lotus, Small Leek Orchid, Autumn Zephyr Lily and Yellow Autumn Zephyr Lily.
Flowering time:
Leek Lotus blooms in summer, and it is very beautiful when in flower. The flowers of Leek Lotus can open multiple times. After the flowers of Leek Lotus fade, a series of measures can be taken to make it bloom again. Generally, Leek Lotus can bloom up to three times within a year. The flowering period is relatively long. Generally, Leek Lotus blooms from June to September each year.
Planting techniques:
1. Soil: Choose soil with good drainage for planting Leek Lotus, a humus-rich sandy soil containing colloidal substances formed by the decomposition and transformation of organic matter by microorganisms.
2. Environment: It is suitable for growing in a place with ample sunlight, a temperature above 15 degrees, and good ventilation. However, it should not be exposed to the hot summer sun. The best temperature is between 16-26 degrees. Although good ventilation is needed, it should not be placed directly in a drafty spot.
3. Water: Especially during the growing period of Leek Lotus, sufficient water must be ensured. This can make its leaves lush and also affects the number and size of its flowers.
4. Fertilizing: During the growing period, sufficient fertilizer must be applied. A relatively dilute liquid fertilizer can be used 3 to 4 times.
5. Care after flowers fade: After the previous batch of flowers fades, do not water for the time being. After 50 to 60 days, resume normal watering, then stop watering again. Repeat this cycle several times to produce 2 to 3 flowering periods within a year, with each flowering period lasting about 10 days.