Mormolyca ringens

Also known as: The Rigid Mormolyca in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Belize Chiapas - Mexico Departamento de Jalapa - Guatemala El Salvador Honduras Oaxaca - Mexico Tabasco - Mexico Veracruz - Mexico

General Information

The Rigid Mormolyca is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Belize, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 45cm. Each new growth has a single erect lance shaped leaf that grows to 1.5-45cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2-4cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

These orchids grow in cool climates, at low altitudes, in cool plains, forests or coastal scrub.

They are forgiving of humidity variances as long as temperatures are kept on the cool side. They can do well outdoors in the garden in cool and temperate areas, though it is important that they are protected from warm dry winds. They can enjoy morning sun especially in winter but will need protection from the hot sun in the afternoon and during summer. With some acclimatisation they may be able to receive more sun.

 

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 1mm to 203mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 63% to 79%, highest in September and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 16C to 31C, highest in April (21C to 31C) and lowest in January (16C 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. 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.