Notylia angustifolia

Also known as: The Thin or Notylia nana in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Thin is a small sympodial warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 2.5-11cm. Each new growth has numerous thick leaves that grow to 0.35-6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-0.8cm

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 elevations. Rainfall ranges from 30mm to 300mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 68% to 81%, highest in June and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 18C to 30C, highest in April (21C to 30C) and lowest in January (18C to 28C).

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.

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,

Repotting is best done annually.