Epidendrum whittenii
Also known as: Whitten's Epidendrum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Ecuador Puno - Peru
General Information
Whitten's Epidendrum is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador and Peru. It is named after the University of Florida Orchid Enthusiast.
Plant Description
Grows to 0.05-18cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped oblong shaped leaves that grow to 0.3-5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-14cm
Flowers
Numerous fragrant blossoms appear
Fragrance
The orchid is most fragrant during the night.
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Medium
- Bark
- Treefern
- Spaghnum Moss
- IsFragrant
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 381mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 87% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 15C to 26C, highest in March (16C to 26C) and lowest in January (15C to 24C).
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.
Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydrationFertiliser
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. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.Potting
This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted.
