Eulophia petersii

Also known as: Peters' Eulophia or Eulophia baginsensis Eulophia circinnata Eulophia coleae Eulophia gumbariensis Graphorkis caffra Eulophia longipedunculata Graphorkis baginsensis Eulophia phillipsiae Eulophia smithii Epidendrum schimperi Eulophia schimperiana Eulophia caffra in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Burundi Ethiopia Kenya Malawi Mozambique Northern - Sudan Somalia South Africa Uganda Zambia

General Information

Peters' Eulophia is a giant cool to warm growing terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Sudan, Somalia, South Africa, Uganda, and Zambia. It is named after the German Naturalist and Plant Collector in East Africa in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Grows to 100-300cm. Each new growth has numerous rigid elliptic, lance shaped leaves that grow to 1.5-80cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2-30cm

Substrate(s)

• Fine
• Bark
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite
• Sand

Care Notes

These orchids grow on the forest floor so are used to rich soil containing plenty of organic matter that is always moist (but not always wet), and prefer constant conditions in terms of humidity, temperature and water supply. They may not be as forgiving as epiphytes in regards to sudden changes in growing conditions so it is wise to ease them into new conditions over a the space of a few days, and repot as infrequently as possible.

Keep an eye on the plants condition regularly as they can decline suddenly if the conditions are not just right. It is more important to keep water supply constant rather than frequent - overwatering often causes rot which can quickly set in, especially in warmer conditions.

These can be grown in shady, moist areas in the garden, supplied they have protection from abrupt changes caused by the elements, e.g. dry winds, frost etc. Being grown around companion plants such as ferns and bromeliads will help build and retain the humidity they require throughout the year.

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 28mm to 130mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 63% to 77%, highest in September and lowest in December. Temperature ranges from 9C to 26C, highest in July (19C to 26C) and lowest in January (9C to 21C).

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.

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

This orchid prefers a fine, well draining media. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they may have 'wetting agents' that retain water for too long. A simple mix made up of 20% sand, 50% peat or moss, with the remaining 30% made up of decomposed bark and leaf litter would be adequate. Adding some charcoal to the mix will also help it last longer.

Repotting depends on how wet the media is usually. Every 2-3 years would suffice, or whenever the media shows signs of clumping, staying wet for too long, or smells foul.  

Repotting is best done annually.