August 1996
The stout, thick, strap shaped, green leaves have enlarged bases called pseudobulbs and are not ornamental. 2-5 large flowers per stem with large petals and sepals opened flat and one petal curving to form cuplike column and lip at bottom of the flower.
White, Pink, Purple, Yellow
6 week dormant period , water to prevent drying of pseudobulbs.
December to February
Small container
Low, medium, or high. Tolerates most light levels well.
Normal to frequent. Water thoroughly, keep soil moist. Can let soil dry to the touch to a soil depth of 1/2".
Medium. 61 - 70 (degrees F) days, 56 - 65 nights.
Average
Every 2 - 3 weeks during growth period.
Fir tree bark or Osmunda fiber in glazed or plastic pots.
Cut rhizomes in half
Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. New flower buds are desirable. Check leaf axils for insects. Avoid plants with disease or insect damage.
Challenging. Difficult to grow under average home conditions. Hobby plant requiring knowledge and experience.
Numerous other species
Mealybugs: Wash with soapy water or wipe
off with alcohol using cotton swab.
Scale insects: Scrape/wipe off with
cloth & isolate. If severe, discard
plant.
Purple ring spots (virus): No control.
Do not take cuttings from infected
plant.
Line patterns on leaves: No control for
virus. Do not take cuttings from
infected plant.
Known as the corsage orchid (cut flower). Plants not particularly attractive, but the flowers compensate. Hobby greenhouse plant. Tolerant to wide variety of cultural conditions.