About
A medium-sized, epiphytic orchid, up to 45cm tall, with elongated, cylindrical, fleshy pseudobulbs. Each stem (pseudobulb) is covered with alternate, thin sheaths, bearing deciduous leaves. The leaves are thin, strap-shaped, up to 25cm long and 4cm wide. Pendulous flowering stems emerge from the lower nodes near base of the new, mature growth at the end of dormancy. Up to three flowering stems carry simultaneously 12-18 waxy, long-lasting, scented flowers. This is a very dark, almost black form with a dark red centre, each flower measuring 3-4cm across.
About the genus
A genus of orchid which is a cross between Catasetum, Clowesia and Mormodes with thick, ridged stems, strap-like green foliage and flowers which are mainly dark purple to black
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in an open orchid mix of medium-grade bark and sphagnum moss with addition of perlite or horticultural charcoal. Provide bright, full-sun conditions which are essential for development of flowering stems. Long daylight are also essential, with minimum of 10 hours throughout the year. In the UK, supplemential grow lights might be required to support strong growth development and flowering. Night temperatures shouldn't drop below 15°C, but the plant will tolerate daytime temperatures up to 30-35°C during summer. Water and feed plants often during the growing season. Ensure that all water drains away, preventing the plant sitting in water. Reduce watering to minimum in winter months while dormant and keep in a bright, sunny position. As with many orchids, they grow best when well-established and slightly pot-bound. Re-potting should be only done if the plant overgrows its container or before the potting mix starts to deteriorate - approximately once in 2-3 years. The plant should only be re-potted when the new growth appears in spring. See also indoor orchid cultivation
PruningNo pruning required. Remove the flowering stem once finished flowering.
PropagationMature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older growths with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, mealybugs, aphids and scale insects.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free.