Phaius peyrotii

Also known as: Peyrot's Phaius in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Madagascar

General Information

Peyrot's Phaius is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Madagascar. It is named after the French Botanist specialized in Madagascar in the 1900's.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 25-30cm. Each new growth has numerous arching lance shaped leaves that grow to 20-35cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5cm

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 74mm to 478mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 82% to 86%, highest in January and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 10C to 24C, highest in July (17C to 24C) and lowest in January (10C to 19C).

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.

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.