Tetramicra bulbosa

Also known as: The Bulb in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Cuba Haiti Jamaica

General Information

The Bulb is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 3-12cm. Each new growth has numerous thick leaves that grow to 2-10cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-2cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse

Climate

These orchids grow in cool climates, at low altitudes, in cool plains, forests or coastal scrub.

They are forgiving of humidity variances as long as temperatures are kept on the cool side. They can do well outdoors in the garden in cool and temperate areas, though it is important that they are protected from warm dry winds. They can enjoy morning sun especially in winter but will need protection from the hot sun in the afternoon and during summer. With some acclimatisation they may be able to receive more sun.

 

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 33mm to 231mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 56% to 68%, highest in October and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 11C to 26C, highest in July (14C to 26C) and lowest in January (11C to 22C).

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.

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 plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.