Catasetum decipiens

Also known as: The Deceiving Catasetum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Deceiving Catasetum is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia. It is named after the Similar to C discolor but differs in the well developed anntenae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. . Pseudobulbs grow to 3-12cm

Flowers

Numerous fragrant blossoms appear

Fragrance

The orchid is fragrant.

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Treefern
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Fragrant:

• IsFragrant

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 18mm to 112mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 62% to 81%, highest in December and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 19C to 33C, highest in September (22C to 33C) and lowest in January (19C to 28C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

During Summer, be sure to keep media moist. Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

Fertiliser

These plants thrive on fertiliser, especially during periods of growth. Liquid fertiliser can be applied year round at the recommended strength, augmented with manure pellets or other quickly degradable fertiliser, applied away from the base of the plant, during periods of strong growth. Slow release pellets can also be applied year round at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, and by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears. 

Use balanced fertiliser year round. This plant is a heavy feeder year round, full strength fertiliser can be used. Fertiliser can be applied heavily year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots Repotting is best done annually.