Scaphyglottis corallorrhiza

Also known as: The Coral in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

General Information

The Coral is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the roots appearance.

Plant Description

Grows to 20-120cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, rigid leaves that grow to 0.2-11cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.1-50cm

Flowers

A single long lasting blossom appears

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at 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 5C to 17C, highest in May (7C to 17C) and lowest in January (5C to 14C).

Watering

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.