Pleurothallis bivalvis

Also known as: The Two Folded Pleurothallis or Pleurothallis lansbergiana Pleurothallis phaeantha Pleurothallis cardium Zosterophyllanthos ignivomi Pleurothallis ignivomi Pleurothallis lilianiae Pleurothallis sigsigensis Pleurothallis pichinchae Acronia antonensis Zosterophyllanthos archidiaconi Zosterophyllanthos lilianiae Zosterophyllanthos antonensis Pleurothallis fuscata Humboltia cardium Pleurothallis antonensis Pleurothallis stenocardium Pleurothallis chanchamayoensis Pleurothallis angusta Pleurothallis harlingii Pleurothallis lansbergii Acronia archidiaconi Pleurothallis archidiaconi Pleurothallis cardiantha in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Peru

General Information

The Two Folded Pleurothallis is a small cold to cool growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia and Peru.

Plant Description

Each new growth has a single erect elliptic leaf

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Winter and Spring

Blooming Season

• Spring
• Winter

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

These orchids thrive in humid, cool, shady conditions with good airflow, they will be found under dense forest canopies where they will receive moderate sun exposure throughout the year.

When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.

Grows at high elevations.

Fertiliser

These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.

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.