About
An epiphytic, evergreen orchid producing a clump of small, elliptic, 2-9cm tall and 1-3cm wide pseudobulbs. Petals and sepal are yellow with brown, striped markings and dark, almost black lip. Long-lasting flowers measure 6cm across. Each stem up to 12cm long carries a single, aromatic flower. In summer, flowering stems emerge from the axils of papery sheaths and pseudobulbs. Each pseudobulb carries one, 10-40cm long and 1-5cm wide, leathery leaf.
About the genus
A large, diverse genus of mainly epiphytic, tropical orchids, producing a clump of small, elliptic or egg-shaped pseudobulbs. Pseudobulbs are thickened basal parts of stem, serving as a storage of water and nutrients
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toC America
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in an open, free-draining, medium-grade, bark-based orchid mix with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Requires day temperatures around 18-20°C and 14-16°C at night. Provide good light levels, but avoid direct sunlight. Water plants thoroughly when compost is almost dry, allow to drain and use orchid fertiliser regularly during growing season. See also indoor orchid cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided in early or mid spring, when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3-4 healthy, older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, scale insects and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free. Poor air movement and soggy potting mix may cause risk of bacterial infections