Lophiaris margalefii

Also known as: Margalefi's Lophiaris in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Guerrero - Mexico Oaxaca - Mexico

General Information

Margalefi's Lophiaris is a cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico. It is named after the Mexican Orchid Enthusiast late in the 1900's.

Plant Description

Grows to 23cm. Each new growth has a single leathery erect, elliptic, oblong shaped leaf that grows to 2-22cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.6-1cm

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 high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 0mm to 132mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Temperature ranges from 8C to 28C, highest in April (14C to 28C) and lowest in January (8C to 24C).

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,

This plant does well mounted.