Scaphyglottis exilis

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

Scaphyglottis exilis is a warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 35-50cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 0.3-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.2-17cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 41mm to 518mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 72% to 84%, highest in June and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 20C to 32C, highest in January (22C to 32C) and lowest in July (20C 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.

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.