Scaphyglottis suarezii

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

Scaphyglottis suarezii is a warm to hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador.

Plant Description

Grows to 15-18cm. Each new growth has numerous erect rigid, elliptic leaves that grow to 0.5-7cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3-10cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 381mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 87% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 19C to 30C, highest in March (20C 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 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.