Renanthera elongata

Also known as: The Elongate Renanthera or Saccolabium reflexum Renanthera micrantha Gastrochilus reflexus in Malaysia - Poko Api Sesuda in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Philippines Thailand

General Information

The Elongate Renanthera is a monopodial hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Philippines and Thailand.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 100cm. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 1.5-11.5cm long

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 175mm to 688mm per day, heaviest in January and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 82% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 22C to 33C, highest in August (22C to 33C) and lowest in January (22C to 31C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly Repotting is best done annually.