Corycium carnosum

Also known as: The Fleshy Corycium in the subfamily: Orchidoideae

Native to: South Africa

General Information

The Fleshy Corycium is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Orchidoideae native to South Africa. The name refers to the flowers.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 5-20cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Treefern
• Spaghnum Moss
• Sand

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 15mm to 109mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in August. Humidity ranges from 63% to 79%, highest in January and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 3C to 22C, highest in August (11C to 22C) and lowest in January (3C to 13C).

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

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.