Epidendrum micro-cattleya

Native to: Junin - Peru

General Information

Epidendrum micro-cattleya is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru.

Plant Description

Grows to 8.5cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery thick, elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1-5.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3cm

Flowers

Numerous short lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 3mm to 114mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 53% to 69%, highest in September and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 6C to 26C, highest in May (11C to 26C) and lowest in January (6C to 22C).

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.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

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 well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.