Cohniella stipitata

Native to: Panama

General Information

Cohniella stipitata is a medium sized sympodial warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Panama.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 70cm. Each new growth has a single thick terete shaped leaf that grows to 0.6-70cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-1cm

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 23mm to 249mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 71% to 86%, highest in September and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 23C to 33C, highest in March (24C to 33C) and lowest in January (23C 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 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,