Epidendrum diffusum

Also known as: The Double Cleft Epidendrum or Seraphyta diffusa Seraphyta multiflora Epidendrum tenuiflorum Epidendrum centradenium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Belize Guatemala Oaxaca - Mexico

General Information

The Double Cleft Epidendrum is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Belize, Guatemala and Mexico.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 8-38cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, rigid, elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1-7.5cm long

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Summer and Autumn

Blooming Season

• Autumn
• Summer

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Treefern
• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 8mm to 345mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 77% to 83%, highest in February and lowest in October. Temperature ranges from 10C to 22C, highest in June (15C to 22C) and lowest in January (10C to 16C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

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

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.