Cyrtochilum gracile
Also known as: The Graceful Cyrtochilum or Trigonochilum dalessandroi Odontoglossum dalessandroi Dasyglossum wallisii Odontoglossum obscurum Mesospinidium wallisii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Brazil Peru
General Information
The Graceful Cyrtochilum is a miniature cold to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil and Peru.
Plant Description
Grows to 8-15cm. Each new growth has numerous erect rigid leaves that grow to 6-10cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2-5cm
Flowers
Numerous long lasting blossoms appear
Substrate(s)
- Sand
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 3mm to 198mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 62% to 79%, highest in August and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 11C to 31C, highest in March (18C to 31C) and lowest in January (11C to 27C).
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.
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 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,
