Schomburgkia elata

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Departamento del Meta - Colombia

General Information

Schomburgkia elata is a warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Flowers

Numerous long lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Bark

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 41mm to 518mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 72% to 84%, highest in June and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 21C to 33C, highest in January (23C to 33C) and lowest in July (21C to 30C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

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.

Use balanced fertiliser during Summer and Winter. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a low Nitrogen fertiliser during Summer and Winter. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer and Winter.

Potting

This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.