Cyrtochilum tetraplasium

Native to: Amazonas - Peru Puno - Peru

General Information

Cyrtochilum tetraplasium is a large sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 35-50cm. Each new growth has numerous erect lance shaped, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 2.5-36cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3-6.6cm

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 5mm to 163mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 57% to 78%, highest in August and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 1C to 24C, highest in May (9C to 24C) and lowest in January (1C to 22C).

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

Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.

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.