Diadenium barkeri

Also known as: Barker's Diadenium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador Para - Brazil

General Information

Barker's Diadenium is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador and Brazil. It is named after the English Orchid Enthusiast in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has a single erect lance shaped leaf that grows to 2-7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.4-0.7cm

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 203mm to 380mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 87% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 16C to 27C, highest in March (17C to 27C) and lowest in January (16C to 25C).

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

Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round.