Luisia javanica

Also known as: The Javanese Luisia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Javanese Luisia is a monopodial warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 80cm. Each new growth has numerous terete shaped leaves that grow to 0.3-14cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 25mm to 353mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 69% to 82%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 18C to 28C, highest in April (19C to 28C) and lowest in January (18C to 26C).

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.

Fertiliser

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. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. 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

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.