Phragmipedium sargentianum

Also known as: Sargent's Phragmipedium or Phragmipedium lindleyanum var. sargentianum in the subfamily: Cypripedioideae

Native to: Pernambuco - Brazil

General Information

Sargent's Phragmipedium is a sympodial orchid belonging to the sub family Cypripedioideae native to Brazil. It is named after the American Botanist in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 76-122cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 61-91cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

These orchids grow in cool climates, at low altitudes, in cool plains, forests or coastal scrub.

They are forgiving of humidity variances as long as temperatures are kept on the cool side. They can do well outdoors in the garden in cool and temperate areas, though it is important that they are protected from warm dry winds. They can enjoy morning sun especially in winter but will need protection from the hot sun in the afternoon and during summer. With some acclimatisation they may be able to receive more sun.

 

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 25mm to 277mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 71% to 80%, highest in December and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 17C to 26C, highest in July (21C to 26C) and lowest in January (17C to 22C).

Fertiliser

These orchids do not need to be regularly fertilised and roots may be sensitive to salt build-up, dying back and therefore impairing the plants growth or even killing it.

If fertilising, use half to quarter of the recommended amount of fertiliser. If they receive fertiliser as part of a collection, be sure to flush out the pots regularly with fresh water and monitor the roots by checking how much resistance is given by the plant when nudged in its pot or mount. If the plant becomes wobbly or loose, repot in fresh mix or rinse the media/mount thoroughly and do not fertilise for at least 3 months.

Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly