Dignathe pygmaea

Native to: Hidalgo - Mexico Nuevo León - Mexico

General Information

Dignathe pygmaea is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 4.5cm. Each new growth has a single leathery elliptic, lance shaped leaf that grows to 0.7-3cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.8-1.5cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 46mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 8C to 24C, highest in April (13C to 24C) and lowest in January (8C to 19C).

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

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.