Gongora cassidea
Also known as: The Helmut in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Belize Departamento de San Salvador - El Salvador Guatemala Guerrero - Mexico
General Information
The Helmut is an orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico.
Plant Description
Each new growth has numerous elliptic lance shaped leaves that grow to 2-36cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-6cm
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Charcoal
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
Climate
Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 112mm to 335mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 80% to 87%, highest in July and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 10C to 25C, highest in April (15C to 25C) and lowest in January (10C to 21C).
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.
During Spring, ensure the media does not dry completely outFertiliser
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.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 well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.
