Gomesa laxiflora

Also known as: The Laxly Flowered Gomesa or Gomesa chrysostoma Odontoglossum laxiflorum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Parana - Brazil Rio de Janeiro - Brazil Tocantins - Brazil

General Information

The Laxly Flowered Gomesa is a sympodial cool to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 16-22cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 1-16cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4-6.5cm

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 41mm to 137mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 74% to 81%, highest in September and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 12C to 24C, highest in August (17C to 24C) and lowest in January (12C to 18C).

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.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,