Baptistonia pubes

Native to: Argentina Brazil Paraguay

General Information

Baptistonia pubes is an intermediate to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay.

Plant Description

Grows to 12-19cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, lance shaped, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 3-12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-7cm

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 20mm to 282mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 12C to 26C, highest in August (18C to 26C) and lowest in January (12C to 21C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,