Zootrophion serpentinum

Also known as: The Serpent or Epibator serpentinus in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

The Serpent is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador. The name refers to the general aspect of the plant.

Plant Description

Grows to 50cm. Each new growth has a single leathery erect leaf that grows to 0.2-2.6cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-15cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

Flowers

Numerous long lasting blossoms appear

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Charcoal
• Spaghnum Moss
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 18mm to 173mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 60% to 81%, highest in October and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 14C to 30C, highest in February (16C to 30C) and lowest in January (14C to 27C).

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. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant during Spring.

Potting

Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.