Cleisocentron pallens
Also known as: The Pale Cleisocentron or Saccolabium trichromum Cleisocentron trichromum Gastrochilus trichromus in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Bhutan
General Information
The Pale Cleisocentron is a monopodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Bhutan.
Plant Description
Monopodial. Grows to 100cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1.3-15cm long. The plant forms pendant or arching growths
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Medium
- Bark
- Charcoal
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 818mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 57% to 86%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 8C to 30C, highest in April (23C to 30C) and lowest in January (8C 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.
Fertiliser
Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.
Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.Potting
Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.
Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.