Miltonia russelliana
Also known as: Russell's Miltonia or Oncidium russellianum Miltonia quadrijuga Oncidium russellianum var. pallidum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Parana - Brazil Tocantins - Brazil
General Information
Russell's Miltonia is a small to medium sized sympodial cool to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil. It is named after the English orchid enthusiast in the 19th century.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Grows to 20-30cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 15-25cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-7cm
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 low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 84mm to 302mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 82% to 90%, highest in December and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 13C to 25C, highest in June (16C to 25C) and lowest in January (13C to 20C).
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
Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.
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,
This plant does well mounted.