Epidendrum rousseauae

Also known as: Mrs. Rousseau's Epidendrum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Panama

General Information

Mrs. Rousseau's Epidendrum is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Panama. It is named after the Wife of Belgian Orchid Enthusiast late 1800, early in the 1900's.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous erect lance shaped leaves. Pseudobulbs grow to 10cm

Substrate(s)

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

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 10mm to 480mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 67% to 90%, highest in October and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 18C to 33C, highest in March (21C to 33C) and lowest in January (18C to 29C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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.

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. Repotting is best done annually.