Phaius fragilis

Also known as: The Fragile Phaius in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Fragile Phaius is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 40cm. Each new growth has numerous elliptic lance shaped leaves that grow to 8-33cm long

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 114mm to 234mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 78% to 84%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 15C to 26C, highest in April (16C to 26C) and lowest in January (15C to 23C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

During Winter, be sure to keep media moist.

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.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.