Doritis

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Asian region.

Description. Doritis are small, predominantly terrestrial, less often epiphytic monopodial orchids with leathery, hard, elliptical leaves up to 15 cm long, which are arranged alternately. The underside of the leaf blade often has a purple tint. Spectacular, brightly coloured flowers reminiscent of Phalaenopsis appear on tall, upright stems up to 50 cm high, rising above the leaves. Each stem has 15 to 25 buds, which open sequentially from the bottom up. Shades range from deep crimson, red, various shades of pink to pure white or lavender and inky purple.

Height. During the flowering period it reaches 50 cm due to high peduncles.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

This is a heat-loving orchid, but it is also advisable to provide it with a temperature difference. Ideally, daytime temperatures should be 21 - 27 ° C, decreasing at night to 16 - 18 ° C. 

Lighting

A well-lit place without direct sunlight during the day.

Care

It is not the easiest houseplant to care for and maintain, but it more than compensates for this deficiency with abundant and long-lasting flowering, which can last up to 4 months. 

Substrate for orchids

The flower prefers well-drained soil consisting of sphagnum moss, coconut fiber, pine bark, sand and charcoal.

Feeding

During the growth period, apply highly diluted liquid fertilizer every third watering.

Flowering time

Flowering can occur at any time of the year and is very long lasting.

Air humidity

Air humidity should be approximately 50 - 60%. To increase humidity, place the pot on a tray with wet pebbles and use a room humidifier. Spray only with soft water at room temperature in the morning, trying not to get it on the buds and flowers. You can surround the pot with a layer of wet sphagnum moss. Provide good air circulation, but protect the bush from drafts.

Watering

During the active growing season, water sparingly. The substrate must dry almost completely before the next watering. In winter, reduce watering. 

Transplant

Replant in the spring, with a sufficient layer of drainage material placed at the bottom of the pot. The main sign that this plant needs replanting is the roots peeking out of the drainage holes of the pot. Doritis is preferably grown in clay pots, the walls of which allow water and air to pass through. 

Reproduction

Can be propagated by division and seeds.

Pests and diseases

If the soil is overwatered and there is stagnation of moisture after watering, the roots may rot. When grown in a too dry atmosphere of heated living spaces, the flowers of Doritis dry out prematurely.

Among the pests, the plant can be attacked by mealybugs, aphids, scale insects, and spider mites.