Scaphyglottis atwoodii

Also known as: Atwood's Scaphyglottis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

Atwood's Scaphyglottis is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the American Botanist in Costa Rica in the 1900's.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous elliptic oblong shaped leaves that grow to 0.6-9.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 6-20cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 71mm to 180mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 82% to 94%, highest in May and lowest in April. Temperature ranges from 18C to 28C, highest in June (21C to 28C) and lowest in January (18C to 26C).

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.

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

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.