Bifrenaria

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. South America. Brazil.

Description. Bifrenaria are small epiphytic or lithophytic orchids 10 - 60 cm high with yellow, rectangular fleshy pseudobulbs with a diameter of 6 - 8 cm. The appearance of the pseudobulbs of this orchid resembles a banana. The leaves are leathery, up to 3 cm long, located on rounded petioles. A short peduncle appears at the base of the pseudobulb. The inflorescences have up to 5 very fragrant, showy waxy flowers with a diameter of 7 - 8 cm with a bright lip. The fruits are green, ripen within eight months, each containing hundreds of thousands of yellowish or brownish oblong, very small seeds.

Height. 30 - 50 cm wide, 10 - 60 cm high.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

Bifrenaria prefers moderately warm conditions in the range from 18 to 24 ° C and night coolness at 15 ° C. The winter dormant period should take place at a temperature of 12 - 15 ° C.  

Lighting

In a well-lit place, but not exposed to direct sunlight.

Care

It is advisable to grow bifrenaria in a greenhouse, where it is easy to maintain the required temperature and high humidity.

Substrate for orchids

Based on pine bark, sphagnum moss with the addition of perlite to ensure drainage.

Feeding

2 times a month during the period of active growth, stop feeding in winter.

Flowering time

Depending on the species, mainly from March to May.

Air humidity

Very high – at least 50 percent. Do not spray the plant - water can leave unsightly spots on the leaves; it is better to place the pot on a tray with wet gravel or use a humidifier indoors.

Water orchids at home

In the warm season, watering is frequent and abundant; in winter, water moderately. 

Transplant

Transplantation is poorly tolerated and takes a long time to recover, so it is better to replant as needed - approximately every 3 years, after flowering. 

Propagation

By dividing adult plants, separating pseudobulbs.

Pests and diseases

Among the harmful insects, the flower can be attacked by spider mites, scale insects, aphids, and whiteflies.

Note

Lifespan - 3 - 5 years in the house.