Symphyglossum strictum

Also known as: The Rigid Symphyglossum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Departamento de Narino - Colombia Departamento del Huila - Colombia Provincia de Bolivar - Ecuador Provincia de Cotopaxi - Ecuador Provincia del Azuay - Ecuador Provincia del Chimborazo - Ecuador

General Information

The Rigid Symphyglossum is a cold to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia and Ecuador. The name refers to the inflorescence.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous thick erect, rigid, oblong shaped leaves

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 23mm to 109mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 73% to 77%, highest in October and lowest in January. Temperature ranges from 9C to 23C, highest in May (12C to 23C) and lowest in February (9C to 20C).

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.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,

Repotting is best done annually.