Ascocentrum pumilum

Also known as: The Small Flowered Ascocentrum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Small Flowered Ascocentrum is a monopodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 6cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery leaves that grow to 0.2-8cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 46mm to 912mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 78% to 92%, highest in August and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 7C to 24C, highest in August (16C to 24C) and lowest in January (7C to 17C).

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.

Potting

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.