Orchid Calanthe 'Kozu Spice'

Calanthe 'Kozu Spice', or Kozu Spice orchid, is an evergreen to semi-evergreen orchid with showy two-colored flowers in combinations of red and yellow, red and white, or pink and red. 'Kozu Spice' is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is the primary hybrid of the seed parent Calanthe discolor and the pollen parent Calanthe izu-insularis. The cultivar 'Kozu Spice' was originated by K. Karasawa in 1996, and the pollen parent Calanthe izu-insularis is now a virtually extinct species native to the Izu Islands in Japan, which is also the home of the more plentiful Calanthe discolor. Calanthe comes from the Greek word “Kalos”, meaning beautiful, and “Anthos”, meaning flower.

'Kozu Spice' is grown as a perennial in zones 7a  to 9b, and, with proper winter protection, can survive up to zone 6. Its leaves may be minutely pubescent, as both of its parents have pubescent leaves. In all but the coldest winters, ‘Kozu Spice’ is evergreen, though its leaves may be ragged in spring. ‘Kozu Spice’ fits nicely along with hosta, trillium, and ferns in a moist semi-shaded area. For best results, mix native soil with plenty of compost, peat, and sand to create a well-draining open gritty mix that will retain moisture and provide good air in the soil. There is generally no need for fertilizer unless indicated by a soil test. Spread the roots wide apart and plant with the crown even to the top of the soil, or slightly below. Beware not to plant the crown too far below the soil as this could cause crown rot. Water well between April and September and surround with 2 to 4 inches of mulch after the first freeze. In climates colder than zone 7b, it may be possible to overwinter in the garden if a heavy layer (up to 10”) of leaves is applied. When grown outdoors, the plant prefers shaded spots and can tolerate full shade.

Healthy plants could expand to a 12” clump that may be lifted and divided from winter to early spring. If planting ‘Kozu Spice’ in a container, bring indoors to a cool portion of the home in winter where it will not freeze. During spring clean-up, leave the damaged winter-worn leaves to die out naturally to safeguard from viruses. After blooming, deadheading will prevent seed production that can reduce future blooming. Calanthe pollination biology remains largely unknown. Scientific studies report pollination of C. izu-insularis and C. discolor would possibly occur by means of small solitary bees, such as a sweat bee. Though neither C. izu-insularis nor C. discolor provide nectar, they attract pollinators by deceptive mechanisms.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

No known disease or insect problems. Removing old leaves may invite virus, so they are best left to die naturally.

More information on Calanthe.