Ascocentrum

Family. Orchidaceae.

Homeland. Asian tropics.

Description. The small genus consists of about 10 species. Ascocentrums are closely related to Vandas and easily interbreed with them. These are compact monopodial plants that are easy to grow indoors. The leaves are belt-shaped, arranged alternately or oppositely, up to 15 cm long, about 2 - 3 cm wide, leathery. The roots emerge from the bottom of the trunk and sometimes from the leaves. The stem of mature plants often begins to branch. The inflorescences are vertical, cone-shaped, covered with small, showy flowers, red, pink or dark orange, depending on the species.

Height. 15 - 40 cm. 

Care for ascocentrum

Temperature

Prefers temperatures above 18° C, can tolerate lower temperatures, but with prolonged exposure to low temperatures it slows down growth and stops blooming. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C can cause stunted growth and lack of flowering for up to one year. 

Lighting

Requires bright lighting and adapts to direct sunlight. 

Care

If you want to grow monopodial orchids, this is the one to start with. After you have successfully completed this science, you can move on to vandas.

Substrate for orchids

Consisting of fern fibers (for small plants), pieces of rough pine bark or sphagnum moss. 

Feeding

Feed once a week with orchid fertilizer at half strength. Plants respond very well to timely feeding and bloom more profusely.

Purpose

Looks great in hanging baskets. 

Flowering time of ascocentrum

From spring to autumn, very abundant.

Air humidity

Provide high humidity - 60% for healthy growth, but the more the better. These orchids grow well in 90% humidity as long as there is adequate ventilation. 

Watering

Watering is frequent and plentiful during the growing season; slightly reduce watering in winter.  Pots containing ascocentrums can be immersed in water and then allowed to drain for two or three minutes. Healthy aerial roots should remain green or silver.

Transfer

After flowering, approximately once every 2 - 3 years. 

Reproduction

Propagate by division, making sure all divisions have at least two healthy roots.

Pests and diseases

Plants that receive enough light have light green leaves. Dark green leaves or lack of flowering usually indicate insufficient light. Healthy specimens should remain leafy even at the bottom of the stem. If the plant sheds leaves, this is a sign of dryness or improper nutrition.

Pests that can attack the flower include aphids and spider mites.

Varieties: 

Ascocentrum miniatum

A miniature variety that reaches a height of only 10 - 20 cm. The bright orange flowers of this orchid have a longer shape and a curved lip. The flowering period can last 4 - 6 months.