Vanilla poitaei

Also known as: The Poiteau Vanilla or Vanilla eggersii Vanilla correllii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Cuba

General Information

The Poiteau Vanilla is a warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Cuba. It is named after the an old name for the island of Hispanola.

Plant Description

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

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Summer and Spring

Blooming Season

• Spring
• Summer

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 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 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,