Tainia cordifolia
Also known as: The Heart or Tainia fauriei Mischobulbum cordifolium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Heart is a cool to warm growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae.
Plant Description
Grows to 15-25cm. Each new growth has a single oblong shaped leaf that grows to 5-15cm long
Substrate(s)
- Fine
- Bark
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
- Sand
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 low to high 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.
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. Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round. 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 orchid prefers a fine, well draining media. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they may have 'wetting agents' that retain water for too long. A simple mix made up of 20% sand, 50% peat or moss, with the remaining 30% made up of decomposed bark and leaf litter would be adequate. Adding some charcoal to the mix will also help it last longer.
Repotting depends on how wet the media is usually. Every 2-3 years would suffice, or whenever the media shows signs of clumping, staying wet for too long, or smells foul.
Repotting is best done annually.