Brassia brachiata

Also known as: The Branched Brassia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Chiapas - Mexico Guatemala

General Information

The Branched Brassia is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico and Guatemala.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 30-42cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 23-30cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 7-12cm

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 high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 1mm to 165mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 8C to 27C, highest in April (14C to 27C) and lowest in January (8C to 22C).

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,