Scaphyglottis sickii

Also known as: Sick's Scaphyglottis or Scaphyglottis signata in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Amazonas - Brazil Amazonas - Colombia Departamento del Huila - Colombia Mato Grosso do Sul - Brazil Sao Paulo - Brazil

General Information

Sick's Scaphyglottis is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil and Colombia.

Plant Description

Grows to 4-20cm. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 0.1-7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.1-15cm

Flowers

A single self pollinating blossom appears

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to 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 17C to 31C, highest in February (19C to 31C) and lowest in September (17C 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. Repotting is best done annually.