Epidendrum Orchid Care
Epidendrum Facts
Epidendrum encompasses over 1,000 species of orchid. Native to South America, Central America, Mexico, Florida, and the Caribbean, Epidendrum live in a wide variety of habitats. They are able to thrive both at sea level like Hawaii orchids in Hawaii and the high elevations of the Andes Mountains. Interestingly, this species can survive as well in a humid tropical setting as on a sun-drenched grassy slope.
Epidendrum is a sympodial orchid. Potted sympodial orchids grow along their growing media, often with horizontal stems. The plant growth can resemble a hand across the surface of the media, splitting and creating multiple buds and flowers. If mounted, a sympodial orchid will grow in any direction.
Potting Needs
Like most other orchids, Epidendrum orchid care requires thorough watering, especially in hot weather. Ensure that you are using growing media that drains well, such as fir bark with Pearlite. Epidendrum aren’t very picky when it comes to their potting mix as long as there is good drainage.
Plastic or clay pots are good for epidendrum orchid care. If using plastic containers, check the surface of your growing media before watering. Plastic pots are nonporous and retain water. They should contain adequate drainage holes or a mesh bottom to prevent overwatering. Clay pots are porous and as such allow media to dry effectively. With clay pots, watch for salt buildup from hard water or fertilizers as this can cause extensive root damage.
Temperature and Light
Epidendrum prefer temperatures from 60-90°F with a drop in temperature and light at night. Daytime sun coupled with midday shade will promote healthy orchid growth.
Where to Plant
Epidendrum varieties can grow from 6 inches to 6 feet in height. Because of their tendency to grow tall, they are perfect for garden or greenhouse environments. If you want to grow your Epidendrum in your home, you may want to consider a hybrid that is more compact.
Species and Hybrids
There are over 1,000 known species of Epidendrum. A sampling will be discussed here.
Epidendrum ciliare grow to approximately one foot tall. With large, fragrant green and white flowers, Epi. ciliare are a stunning addition to any collection. This variety blooms in winter and is quite easy to grow.
Epidendrum ilense is a gorgeous species. Stunning small white flowers have a distinctive long fringed lip that is simply amazing to look at. The wonderful thing about this plant is that it continues to produce blooms both on its new and old stems. Don’t remove old spikes until they are brown as they will continue to provide you with lovely flowers year after year.
Epidendrum Plastic Doll is a hybrid with green petals and vivid yellow sepals. Growing to a height of about 2 feet, the flowers grow in pendant clusters of three to five blooms.
Epidendrum Costa Rica features lovely 1.5 inch flowers. Orange spotted sepals and petals are set off by a muted purple lip. This hybrid generally grows 2-3 feet tall.
Epidendrum Hokulea is a vibrant orange and red hybrid orchid. Recognized by the American Orchid Society, this plant is especially temperature tolerant. It can begin flowering at 1 foot in height, but will continue to grow to several feet.
Whatever variety of you choose, make sure to follow these tips for epidendrum orchid care, and enjoy these amazing orchids.
