Capanemia riograndensis

Native to: Brazil

General Information

Capanemia riograndensis is a miniature cool to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.

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 79mm to 132mm per day, heaviest in March and lightest in May. Humidity ranges from 66% to 79%, highest in January and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 8C to 29C, highest in July (18C to 29C) and lowest in January (8C to 17C).

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.

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,