Octomeria grandiflora

Also known as: The Large or Octomeria truncata Octomeria lobulosa Octomeria arcuata Octomeria robusta Octomeria boliviensis Octomeria grandiflora var. seegeriana Octomeria similis Octomeria ruthiana Octomeria seegeriana Octomeria grandiflora var. robusta in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia French Guiana Guyana Nicaragua Sao Paulo - Brazil

General Information

The Large is a medium sized cool to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Nicaragua, and Brazil.

Plant Description

Each new growth has a single leathery erect, rigid, lance shaped, terete shaped leaf. The plant can form a mat over time

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn and Spring

Blooming Season

• Autumn
• Spring

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

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.

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,