Notylia replicata

Also known as: The Folded Back Notylia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Peru Provincia de Esmeraldas - Ecuador Provincia de Loja - Ecuador

General Information

The Folded Back Notylia is a miniature sympodial warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru and Ecuador.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 10cm. Each new growth has a single elliptic leaf that grows to 2-8cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.2-2cm

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 3mm to 180mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 70% to 81%, highest in August and lowest in May. Temperature ranges from 17C to 30C, highest in June (21C to 30C) and lowest in February (17C to 27C).

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,