Scaphyglottis sublibera

Native to: Peru

General Information

Scaphyglottis sublibera is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru.

Plant Description

Grows to 17cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 0.5-7.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 10cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 163mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 57% to 78%, highest in August and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from -1C to 23C, highest in May (7C to 23C) and lowest in January (-1C to 20C).

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. Repotting is best done annually.