Coryanthes elegantium

Also known as: The Elegant Coryanthes or Coryanthes wolfii Coryanthes elegantissima in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Elegant Coryanthes is an orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 55cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 6.5-45cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-10cm

Substrate(s)

• Bark
• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 10mm to 193mm per day, heaviest in February and lightest in November. Humidity ranges from 82% to 87%, highest in February and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 19C to 28C, highest in August (21C to 28C) and lowest in September (19C to 27C).

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.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.

Potting

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.