Maxillaria

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Central America.

Description. A very large genus of epiphytic, lithophytic or terrestrial, mostly miniature, orchids, which contains over 900 species. The oblong or round, ovoid pseudobulbs bear at the top 1 - 4 strap-shaped, glossy, green leaves. Peduncles are leafless, strong, but low, each bearing one flower. The flowers are greenish, yellow, burgundy, white, purple, orange, red, orange and almost black, with all possible combinations of these shades, have a very pleasant smell, reminiscent of coconut, and reach 6 cm in diameter.

Height. Reaches 10 - 20 cm. 

Сare at home

Temperature

The temperature for keeping maxillaria depends on the specific plant variety. Most species grow successfully in warm conditions - during the daytime the temperature should be from 21 to 29 ° C, decreasing at night to 13 - 15 ° C. 

Lighting

In spring and summer, orchids are shaded from direct sunlight; in autumn and winter, the flower should receive the maximum possible light.

How to care for a flower

Trim stems with fading flowers at the base. Maxillaria does not like sudden changes in temperature and light conditions, as well as cold drafts.

Soil for orchids

Composition of perlite, sphagnum moss, pine bark, with the addition of small pieces of charcoal, slightly acidic pH. 

Fertilizer

Feed with fertilizers for orchids, diluted to half the recommended dosage every 2 weeks during the period of active growth.

Purpose

Maxillaria is a miniature and very attractive orchid, rarely found in collections. 

Flowering time

Depends on the specific species, but generally - March - April.

Air humidity

The ideal humidity for growing this genus is 40 to 70 percent. Place the pot on a tray filled with wet pebbles or use a room humidifier. You can surround the plant with a layer of damp sphagnum moss or mist the leaves with soft, room-temperature water, providing the plant with adequate air movement.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season. In autumn, reduce the frequency of watering slightly and dry the soil to a depth of 5 - 6 cm between waterings. Slightly wrinkled pseudobulbs will indicate the need for regular watering in autumn and winter. 

Transfer

Maxillaria is replanted only when necessary, trying to minimally disturb the root system. 

Reproduction

Dividing large plants when transplanting. 

Pests and diseases

When exposed to direct sunlight, scorch marks may appear on the leaves.

Of the harmful insects, the flower can be threatened by spider mites and scale insects.