Scaphyglottis stricta

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

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

Plant Description

Grows to 35cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 0.7-16cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.4-17cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 33mm to 277mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in August. Humidity ranges from 62% to 79%, highest in December and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 14C to 28C, highest in August (14C to 28C) and lowest in May (14C to 27C).

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.