Lycaste dowiana

Also known as: Dow's Lycaste or Lycaste dowiana h.f. alba Lycaste dowiana var. isabelii Lycaste dowiana var. viridis Lycaste dowiana var. labello-alba in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Nicaragua

General Information

Dow's Lycaste is a cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Nicaragua. It is named after the English Orchid Enthusiast and Ship Captain in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous elliptic lance shaped leaves

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.

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,