Lycaste xytriophora

Also known as: The Lycaste With Handles or Lycaste xytriophora var. rosea in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Panama

General Information

The Lycaste With Handles is a large cold to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia and Panama.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous erect lance shaped leaves

Flowers

Numerous long lasting, fragrant blossoms appear during Summer and Spring

Fragrance

The orchid is fragrant.

Blooming Season

• Spring
• Summer

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.

Potting

These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well. Repotting is best done after the growing season when the plant has died back.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.