Aspasia

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Cool forests of Brazil, Central and South America.

Description.  Some species of the genus Aspasia grow as epiphytes on thick tree stems, others live on branches where they receive more light, and some behave as lithophytes. This is a relatively resistant plant. Pseudobulbs are elliptical or elongated and strongly compressed laterally. The leaves are light green, thin and narrow. The inflorescence is erect or curved, bears from one to nine spectacular fragrant flowers with a diameter of up to 7 cm, which open sequentially, three to four at a time. The shade varies depending on the species. The petals of some species are elliptical, while others are sharp, narrow, flat or concave. Flowering lasts about ten days, sometimes for a whole month.

Height. From 30 to 60 cm.

Aspasia - care at home

Temperature conditions

Prefers moderately warm conditions, optimally 18 - 20° C. 

Lighting

Moderately bright, with shading from direct sunlight.

Care

A rather unpretentious orchid. 

Substrate for orchids

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

Feeding

Apply a balanced fertilizer at half strength weekly during active growth. 

Flowering time

Plants bloom in spring or summer.

Air humidity

High humidity - about 75 percent, preferably kept in a ventilated area.

Water orchids at home

In winter, the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings. After flowering, watering is reduced for one to two months. Water more abundantly during active growth. 

Transplant

As it grows and needs to change the substrate or size of the pot - approximately every 2 - 3 years, in the spring. 

Reproduction

Dividing mature healthy plants. 

Pests and diseases

Infectious diseases common to most orchids.