Encyclia flabelifera

Native to: Brazil

General Information

Encyclia flabelifera is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.

Plant Description

Sympodial.

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 28mm to 201mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 80% to 84%, highest in September and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 12C to 28C, highest in July (19C to 28C) and lowest in January (12C to 23C).

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.