Orleanesia amazonica

Also known as: The Amazonian Orleansia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Brazil

General Information

The Amazonian Orleansia is a hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.

Plant Description

Grows to 0.5-60cm. Each new growth has numerous thick erect leaves that grow to 1.8-10cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 38mm to 262mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 70% to 81%, highest in October and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 21C to 31C, highest in March (22C to 31C) and lowest in January (21C to 28C).

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.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

Fertiliser

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, Fern slabs or Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.