Phaius robertsii

Also known as: Roberts' Phaius or Phaius monticola Phaius pictus in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: New Caledonia

General Information

Roberts' Phaius is a sympodial warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to New Caledonia.

Plant Description

Sympodial.

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 51mm to 145mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 67% to 76%, highest in October and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 16C to 29C, highest in June (22C to 29C) and lowest in February (16C to 24C).

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.