Rodriguezia pulchra

Also known as: The Beautiful Rodriguezia in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

The Beautiful Rodriguezia is a miniature sympodial warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 10-12cm. Each new growth has a single leathery erect, rigid leaf that grows to 7.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.7-3.5cm

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

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 381mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 87% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 24C, highest in March (14C to 24C) and lowest in January (13C to 22C).

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

Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,