Cyrtochilum densiflorum

Also known as: The Densely Flowered Cyrtochilum or Trigonochilum robustum Cyrtochilum posadarum Cyrtochilum macrum Cyrtochilum robustum Cyrtochilum ramulosum Odontoglossum ramulosum Odontoglossum posadarum Odontoglossum robustum Oncidium ramulosum Odontoglossum macrum Oncidium macrum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Densely Flowered Cyrtochilum is a sympodial cold to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 2-25cm long

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

These orchids thrive in cool, conditions with good airflow. When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 160mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 68% to 76%, highest in November and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 3C to 14C, highest in February (5C to 14C) and lowest in January (3C to 12C).

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

These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.

Potting

These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.