Trichosalpinx arbuscula
Also known as: The Tree or Pleurothallis moschata Pleurothallis diptera Pleurothallis arbusculoides Pleurothallis dinotherii Pleurothallis lepanthoides Pleurothallis tricaudata Trichosalpinx arbusculoides Trichosalpinx dinotherii Trichosalpinx moschata Specklinia lepanthoides Tubella moschata Humboltia dinotherii Humboltia diptera Humboltia moschata in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia Panama
General Information
The Tree is a miniature cold to cool growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia and Panama. The name refers to the growth habit.
Plant Description
Each new growth has a single elliptic leaf
Flowers
Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn and Winter
Blooming Season
- Autumn
- Winter
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
These orchids thrive in cool, conditions with good airflow. When cultivated they will thrive in a cool, sheltered environment such as a shaded greenhouse, or if grown in cooler climates they can be grown in the garden in areas where they are protected from frost and receive shade throughout the year, though they may be able to tolerate some morning sun during winter.
Grows at high elevations.Fertiliser
These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.
Potting
These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.
The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.
