Lophiaris oestlundiana

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

Native to: Nayarit - Mexico

General Information

Oestlund's Lophiaris is a small warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico. It is named after the Swedish Orchid Collector in the 1900's.

Plant Description

Grows to 26cm. Each new growth has a single thick rigid leaf that grows to 3-25cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1cm

Substrate(s)

• Bark

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

These orchids thrive in humid, cool, shady conditions with good airflow, they will be found under dense forest canopies where they will receive moderate sun exposure throughout the year.

When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 1mm to 196mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in April. Temperature ranges from 10C to 31C, highest in May (20C to 31C) and lowest in January (10C to 26C).

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,