Constantia cristinae

Also known as: Cristina's Constania in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Brazil

General Information

Cristina's Constania is a sympodial warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil. It is named after the Mrs Miranda, Orchid Enthusiast, discoverer of species and wife of Francisco orchid nurseryman in Brazil.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 1cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 0.2-0.4cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1cm. The plant can form a mat over time

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 to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 18mm to 348mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 71% to 83%, highest in June and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 28C, highest in July (19C to 28C) and lowest in January (13C to 23C).

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.

Fertiliser

dormant-medium-demand-orchid 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

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,