Otoglossum harlingii

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

Otoglossum harlingii is a cold to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador.

Plant Description

Grows to 3-5cm. Each new growth has a single leathery erect, oblong shaped leaf that grows to 0.5-2.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-0.7cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

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 high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 23mm to 109mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 73% to 77%, highest in October and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 10C to 24C, highest in May (13C to 24C) and lowest in February (10C to 21C).

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.