Sarcochilus olivaceus

Also known as: The Greenish Sarcochilus or The Southern Lawyer Orchid in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: New South Wales - Australia Queensland - Australia

General Information

The Greenish Sarcochilus is a monopodial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Australia.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 1-15cm long. The plant forms pendant or arching growths

Flowers

Numerous fragrant blossoms appear during Summer

Fragrance

The orchid is fragrant. The fragrance can be described as delicate and spicy

Blooming Season

• Summer

Substrate(s)

• Bark

Fragrant:

• IsFragrant

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 53mm to 221mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 70% to 83%, highest in August and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 5C to 25C, highest in June (17C to 25C) and lowest in January (5C to 17C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

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.

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 This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted.