Scaphyglottis robusta

Also known as: The Robust Scaphyglottis in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Panama

General Information

The Robust Scaphyglottis is a hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Panama. The name refers to the habit.

Plant Description

Grows to 16-50cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery erect, elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 0.1-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.2-23cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 36mm to 620mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 77% to 89%, highest in November and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 19C to 27C, highest in May (21C to 27C) and lowest in October (19C to 25C).

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 to Cork slabs.