Restrepia cuprea

Also known as: The Copper in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Antioquia - Colombia Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

The Copper is a cool growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 15cm. Each new growth has a single elliptic oblong shaped leaf that grows to 0.5-7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-8cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 64mm to 196mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 69% to 77%, highest in October and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 13C to 28C, highest in March (15C to 28C) and lowest in June (13C to 26C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

Keep moisture levels up during hot weather as the plant is prone to dehydration

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.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. 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

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.