Brassia mexicana

Native to: Departamento de Esteli - Nicaragua Guerrero - Mexico

General Information

Brassia mexicana is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Nicaragua and Mexico.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 35cm. Each new growth has a single elliptic lance shaped, oblong shaped leaf that grows to 3-32cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4.5-7.2cm

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 0mm to 132mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Temperature ranges from 13C to 33C, highest in April (19C to 33C) and lowest in January (13C to 29C).

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 can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.