Overview

Epidendrum is a clump-forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Epidendrum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Epidendrum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental.

About

Epidendrum is an orchid genus in the Orchidaceae grown as a clump-forming, evergreen plant for conservatory and indoor culture. It suits full sun and favours a well-drained, neutral loam in a south-facing, sheltered spot. With an H4 (average) hardiness rating it is best kept under glass or as a houseplant in cooler UK locations. Flowering occurs June to September.

About the genus

Epidendrum, abbreviated Epi in the horticultural trade, is a large neotropical genus of the orchid family. With more than 1,500 species, some authors describe it as a mega-genus. The genus name refers to its epiphytic growth habit.

Wikipedia contributors, "Epidendrum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Epidendrum

In the garden

Epidendrum belongs to the orchid family and is cultivated principally for glasshouse and indoor display, where its clump-forming evergreen growth shows most reliably. Plants are commonly used in conservatories, greenhouses and as houseplants; they occupy positions that receive strong light and protection from exposure rather than open, north-facing sites. Flowering takes place from June to September, providing a defined summer display. Position and soil are decisive for success: choose a bright, south-facing, sheltered place and a freely draining neutral loam. In pots or in-ground within a protected structure, ensure the root zone does not remain waterlogged by using a medium based on loam with good drainage. The UK hardiness rating of H4 (average) indicates these orchids cope with typical seasonal conditions only when given protection from severe exposure, so a conservatory or sheltered greenhouse is usually the most reliable setting. As an ornamental, Epidendrum suits growers who can provide bright conditions and a steady, sheltered microclimate; its evergreen clumps extend into a summer flowering period that runs June to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Epidendrum

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Epidendrum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants

Habit

Clump-forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Ornamental

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Epidendrum

Propagation

Division, Seed

Pest resistance

Moderate

Disease resistance

Moderate

Frequently asked questions