Gastrochilus matsuran

Also known as: The Matsue Gastrochilus in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Matsue Gastrochilus is a monopodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after a city in Japan.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 2-10cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 0.35-1cm long. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Substrate(s)

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

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 18mm to 434mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 82% to 85%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 9C to 29C, highest in July (21C to 29C) and lowest in January (9C to 18C).

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

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

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.