Amesiella

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Plants are found in the tropical forests of the Philippines at an altitude of 1800 - 2200 meters.

Description. Amesiella is a slow-growing, miniature monopodial orchid. This charming species comes from the Philippines, where it grows along the edges of tropical forests at mid-altitudes where temperatures remain mild all year round. The plant has succulent, fleshy oblong leaves about 6 cm long. Typically, from autumn to spring, or at other times of the year depending on your growing conditions, these miniature plants produce one or more short flower stalks, each topped with 1 - 4 white flowers that are more than 5 cm in diameter. Each of them has a long curved spur up to 10 cm in length and a slight pleasant scent of jasmine. 

Height. Up to 5 cm. 

Amesiella - care at home

Temperature conditions

Prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 ° C, during the rest period it can be reduced to 15 ° C. 

Lighting

This orchid is relatively shade-tolerant, but still prefers bright light without direct exposure to sunlight. In autumn and winter, when there is a lack of natural light, fluorescent lamps are used for additional lighting.

Care

Can be grown on blocks.

Substrate for orchids

The orchid is kept in plastic pots in soil that combines slow-release fertilizer, bark and perlite. A well-drained substrate, such as fern fibre or sphagnum, is required.

Feeding

Regularly, 2 times a month during the growing season; less in colder months. 

Purpose

A delightful and rare addition to the orchid collection.

Flowering time

The plant blooms from autumn to spring.

Air humidity

Very high, 60 - 80%, prefers ventilated rooms without cold drafts. Spraying is possible only with soft water due to the fear of white streaks appearing on the leaves.

Watering

Water generously with soft water during the growing season, but make sure it does not stagnate around the roots. In winter, plants require less water, but they should never remain completely dry for long periods. Often, watering is replaced by spraying during the winter months.

Transfer

Doesn't like transplants, try to do this as rarely as possible. For planting, it is advisable to use an unglazed clay pot, the walls of which easily allow moisture and air to pass through.

Reproduction

Vegetative - by cuttings or dividing adult plants.

Pests and diseases

Root rot, rust, viral diseases of orchids.

A weakened plant is often affected by thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.