Zygopetalum reginae

Also known as: The Royal Zygopetalum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Brazil

General Information

The Royal Zygopetalum is a sympodial cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 28cm. Each new growth has numerous lance shaped leaves that grow to 2-25cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2-3cm

Substrate(s)

• Coarse
• Medium
• Fine
• Bark
• Perlite

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 38mm to 239mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 73% to 83%, highest in August and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 8C to 22C, highest in August (14C to 22C) and lowest in January (8C to 15C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

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.

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

Repotting is best done annually.