An orthogonal design of light factors to optimize growth, photosynthetic capability and metabolite accumulation of Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl.

•An orthogonal design of light intensity, red and blue photon flux ratio and photoperiod to optimize growth, photosynthetic capability and metabolite polysaccharide/ flavonoids accumulation of Anoectochilus roxburghii.•Analysis of chlorophyll fluorescence showed that higher fv/fm and ETR were obtained under low light intensity and moderate R: B, but photoinhibition of photosynthesis were obtained under high light intensity.•Appropriate interaction among the three factors of light could eliminate high light stress.•LEDs are prospective light sources superior to fluorescent lamps in A. roxburghii artificial cultivation.