Sarcoglottis acaulis

Also known as: The Stemless Sarcoglottis or Synoplectris picta Spiranthes allemanii Sarcoglottis allemanii Sarcoglottis picta var. variegata Neottia picta Spiranthes picta Sarcoglottis picta Sarcoglottis speciosa Arethusa picta Spiranthes acaulis var. picta Gyrostachys picta Gyrostachys sarcoglottis Narica moschata in the subfamily: Spiranthoideae

Native to: Amazonas - Colombia Amazonas - Peru Baja California Sur - Mexico Costa Rica Departamento del Huila - Colombia Ecuador Loreto - Peru Nicaragua Panama Region de Huanuco - Peru Region de San Martin - Peru

General Information

The Stemless Sarcoglottis is a small warm growing terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Spiranthoideae native to Colombia, Peru, Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nicaragua, and Panama.

Plant Description

Grows to 30cm. Each new growth has numerous thick erect leaves that grow to 6-45cm long

Substrate(s)

• Fine
• Bark
• Charcoal
• Treefern
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite
• Sand

Care Notes

These orchids grow on the forest floor so are used to rich soil containing plenty of organic matter that is always moist (but not always wet), and prefer constant conditions in terms of humidity, temperature and water supply. They may not be as forgiving as epiphytes in regards to sudden changes in growing conditions so it is wise to ease them into new conditions over a the space of a few days, and repot as infrequently as possible.

Keep an eye on the plants condition regularly as they can decline suddenly if the conditions are not just right. It is more important to keep water supply constant rather than frequent - overwatering often causes rot which can quickly set in, especially in warmer conditions.

These can be grown in shady, moist areas in the garden, supplied they have protection from abrupt changes caused by the elements, e.g. dry winds, frost etc. Being grown around companion plants such as ferns and bromeliads will help build and retain the humidity they require throughout the year.

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 132mm to 345mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 73% to 86%, highest in October and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 19C to 32C, highest in March (21C to 32C) and lowest in January (19C to 29C).

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

This orchid prefers a fine, well draining media. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they may have 'wetting agents' that retain water for too long. A simple mix made up of 20% sand, 50% peat or moss, with the remaining 30% made up of decomposed bark and leaf litter would be adequate. Adding some charcoal to the mix will also help it last longer.

Repotting depends on how wet the media is usually. Every 2-3 years would suffice, or whenever the media shows signs of clumping, staying wet for too long, or smells foul.  

Repotting is best done annually.