Scaphosepalum microdactylum

Also known as: The Little Fingered Scaphosepalum or Scaphosepalum pittieri Scaphosepalum elasmatopus Scaphosepalum longirepens Scaphosepalum standleyi in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Honduras Mexico Panama

General Information

The Little Fingered Scaphosepalum is a miniature cool to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia, Honduras, Mexico, and Panama. The name refers to it's smaller middle sepal.

Plant Description

Each new growth has a single erect elliptic, oblong shaped leaf

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn and Spring

Blooming Season

• Autumn
• Spring

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 low to high elevations.

Fertiliser

These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.

Potting

These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.