Stanhopea greerii

Also known as: Greer's Stanhopea in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Region de San Martin - Peru

General Information

Greer's Stanhopea is a sympodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru. It is named after the Australian Orchid Enthusiast.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has a single leathery erect, lance shaped leaf that grows to 10-40cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3-6cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Bark
• Spaghnum Moss

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 33mm to 109mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in November. Temperature ranges from 14C to 27C, highest in March (17C to 27C) and lowest in January (14C to 25C).

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.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. 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.

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted.