Scaphyglottis bifida

Also known as: The Cleft in two Parts Scaphyglottis or Scaphyglottis falcata Hexadesmia falcata in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Costa Rica

General Information

The Cleft in two Parts Scaphyglottis is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Costa Rica.

Plant Description

Grows to 20-75cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 0.2-29cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.2-55cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 305mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 68% to 85%, highest in October and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 14C to 26C, highest in May (16C to 26C) and lowest in January (14C to 23C).

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.