Maxillaria gracilis
Also known as: The Delicate Maxillaria in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Brazil
General Information
The Delicate Maxillaria is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous leathery arching leaves that grow to 0.8-20cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-2.5cm
Flowers
Numerous fragrant blossoms appear
Fragrance
The orchid is fragrant.
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Medium
- Fine
- Bark
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
- IsFragrant
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 38mm to 239mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 73% to 83%, highest in August and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 8C to 23C, highest in August (14C to 23C) and lowest in January (8C to 16C).
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. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.Potting
This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.
