The plant's bulb is roughly 2cm in length and diameter, with old bulbs persisting near the surface for over a decade. Its Japanese name comes from its shrimp-like bulb appearance. In autumn, new shoots emerge, growing slightly before overwintering. The plant typically has 2-3 thin leaves with varying shapes, featuring five longitudinal veins and a slender leaf stalk. During winter dormancy, the plant remains intact for several years.[6]
In spring, it blooms with a 30-40cm flower stalk and 2-3 bracts, bearing numerous flowers above the midpoint. The flowers open horizontally, with distinct features on the labellum. The flowering period is from April to May.[6]
Usage
Ebine plants in Reisenzan, Japan, are popular for pot cultivation and garden planting. However, they are prone to virus infections, leading to leaf necrosis and flower deformation. Managing these infections is challenging and often requires incineration of affected plants.[7]
The "Ebine Boom" of the 1970s and 1980s declined due to widespread viral infections, prompting growers to stop cultivation. Advances in artificial propagation technology now allow for virus-free seedling production, though commercial seed production of original Ebine species remains rare. Selectively bred varieties are more accessible and affordable, reducing the demand for original Ebine species. Conservation efforts are underway to protect wild Ebine species.[8]
Research suggests that stem cell extracts from Calanthe discolor can stimulate growth factors and enhance tissue protein synthesis such as collagen and elastin.[9][10]
^Soon, Teoh Eng (2005). Orchids of Asia (3rdition ed.). Times Editions- Marshall Cavendish. p. 146. ISBN9812610154.
^ abHayashi, Yae (October 2009). Japanese Wildflowers. p. 580. ISBN9784635090421.
^[1] Virus outbreak status in Japanese rare orchid plants Ebine and Kiebine Kiyohisa Kawakami, Shinichi Fuji, Kazumitsu Miyoshi Proceedings of NIOC 2008, Nagoya, Japan
^Govaerts, R. (2003). World Checklist of Monocotyledons Database in ACCESS: 1-71827. The Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
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