Epidendrum orbiculatum

Also known as: The Rounded Lip Epidendrum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

The Rounded Lip Epidendrum is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador.

Plant Description

Grows to 18-20cm. Each new growth has numerous arching elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 3-7.3cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 18-20cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Treefern
• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 163mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 57% to 78%, highest in August and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 7C to 31C, highest in May (15C to 31C) and lowest in January (7C to 28C).

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

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