Staurochilus luchuensis

Also known as: The Luchue Staurochilus or In Japan Iriomote-ran in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Philippines

General Information

The Luchue Staurochilus is a monopodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Philippines. The name refers to the Luchu Archipelago now Ryukyu Islands.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Grows to 100cm. Each new growth has numerous erect leaves that grow to 2.5-25cm long

Climate

Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 15mm to 399mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in November. Humidity ranges from 79% to 84%, highest in February and lowest in November. Temperature ranges from 7C to 28C, highest in July (21C to 28C) 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.

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

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