Myoxanthus octomerioides
Also known as: The Octomeriae or Humboltia elongata Pleurothallis elongata in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Belize Guerrero - Mexico
General Information
The Octomeriae is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Belize and Mexico. The name refers to it's similarity to Myoxanthus octomeriae.
Plant Description
Grows to 1-33cm. Each new growth has a single leathery thick, erect, elliptic leaf that grows to 2-13cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 8-20cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Medium
- Small
- Bark
- Charcoal
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
Climate
Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 0mm to 132mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in December. Temperature ranges from 9C to 29C, highest in April (16C to 29C) and lowest in January (9C to 26C).
Watering
These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.
Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydrationFertiliser
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 to Tree trunks or Fern slabs. Repotting is best done annually and in a pot the same size or only slightly larger than the previous one.
