Lophiaris morenoi

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

Native to: Brazil Region de San Martin - Peru

General Information

Moreno's Lophiaris is a small cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil and Peru. It is named after the Bolivian Orchid Collector Current.

Plant Description

Grows to 10cm. Each new growth has a single thick erect, rigid, elliptic, oblong shaped leaf that grows to 2-7cm long

Flowers

Numerous fragrant blossoms appear

Fragrance

The orchid is fragrant.

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. 

Fragrant:

• IsFragrant

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 20mm to 150mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 63% to 78%, highest in August and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 14C to 31C, highest in June (21C to 31C) and lowest in January (14C to 23C).

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,