Cyrtochilum ixioides

Also known as: The Ixia or Cyrtochilum narthecioides Odontoglossum narthecioides in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Ixia is a sympodial cold growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 14cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery lance shaped leaves that grow to 1-12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-12cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Climate

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 5C to 16C, highest in February (7C to 16C) and lowest in January (5C to 14C).

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.