Scaphyglottis longicaulis
Also known as: The Long Stemmed Scaphyglottis or Scaphyglottis unguiculata in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Belize Costa Rica Departamento del Huila - Colombia Guatemala Panama
General Information
The Long Stemmed Scaphyglottis is a hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Belize, Costa Rica, Colombia, Guatemala, and Panama.
Plant Description
Grows to 7-35cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect leaves that grow to 0.2-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.1-19cm
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 74mm to 665mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 76% to 83%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 19C to 30C, highest in September (21C to 30C) and lowest in January (19C to 28C).
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 dehydrationFertiliser
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.
