Scaphyglottis graminifolia

Also known as: The Grass or Scaphyglottis loretorensis Ponera rosea Ponera violacea Scaphyglottis rosea Scaphyglottis boliviana Scaphyglottis antonii Scaphyglottis violacea Cladobium violaceum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ayacucho - Peru Cundinamarca - Colombia Departamento del Huila - Colombia Junin - Peru Loreto - Peru

General Information

The Grass is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru and Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 10-45cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, lance shaped leaves that grow to 0.3-20cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.1-20cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 81mm to 244mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 77% to 89%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 13C to 27C, highest in February (16C to 27C) and lowest in September (13C 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.