Odontoglossum multistellare
Also known as: The Many Star Odontoglossum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Pasco - Peru Provincia de Loja - Ecuador
General Information
The Many Star Odontoglossum is a sympodial cold to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru and Ecuador.
Plant Description
Sympodial. Grows to 25cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 2.5-19cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3.5-7.5cm
Flowers
Numerous blossoms appear during Summer and Autumn
Blooming Season
- Autumn
- Summer
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 114mm to 632mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 76% to 81%, highest in July and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 7C to 21C, highest in February (9C to 21C) and lowest in January (7C to 19C).
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
These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.
Potting
These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.
The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.
This plant does well mounted.