Scelochilus hirtzii

Also known as: Hirtz's Scelochilus in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

Hirtz's Scelochilus is a sympodial cold to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador. It is named after the Ecuadorian Orchid Enthusiast Current.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 16cm. Each new growth has a single leathery elliptic leaf that grows to 4.5-12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4cm. The plant forms clusters over time

Climate

Grows at 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 7C to 18C, highest in March (8C to 18C) and lowest in January (7C to 16C).

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.