Amitostigma keiskei

Also known as: Keiske's Amitostigma or In Japan Iwa-Chidori in the subfamily: Orchidoideae

Native to: Japan

General Information

Keiske's Amitostigma is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Orchidoideae native to Japan. It is named after the Japanese Botanist late in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Grows to 2.5cm. Each new growth has a single leaf that grows to 6.4cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 10cm

Substrate(s)

• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 147mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 68% to 82%, highest in January and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from -6C to 31C, highest in August (20C to 31C) and lowest in January (-6C to 3C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Fertiliser

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.