Cyrtochilum tetracopis

Also known as: The Four or Cyrtochilum chrysodipterum var. claesianum Cyrtochilum ludens Cyrtochilum chrysodipterum Oncidium chrysodipterum Oncidium chrysodipterum var. claesianum Oncidium ludens in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Four is a cold growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 76cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 4.5-65cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-11cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

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 high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 46mm to 274mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 77% to 84%, highest in November and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 7C to 20C, highest in August (9C to 20C) and lowest in January (7C to 17C).

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 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,