Stanhopea

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. South and Central America.

Description. Stanhopea is a small genus of orchids, consisting of 30 epiphytic plants. Pseudobulbs are oblong, ovoid or conical, each bearing one long, green, rigid leaf up to 35 cm long. Peduncles are elegantly drooping, leafless. Flowers are white, cream, yellow, burgundy, greenish, located at the tops of the peduncles, bright, up to 10 cm in diameter, with a very pleasant vanilla aroma. Each bud remains open for 2-3 days. Petals often have contrasting specks and marks.

Height. At home, the bushes reach 30 - 40 cm. 

Care at home

Temperature conditions

The orchid prefers moderate heat - during the growing season the temperature should be 20 - 24 °C, dropping at night to 11 - 15 °C. Daily temperature fluctuations contribute to abundant flowering. In the winter months, the plant requires a cool dormant period at a temperature of 14 - 17 °C.

Lighting

The flower does not like direct sunlight, but it needs a well-lit place. The light should not be direct, otherwise the leaves will get burned.

Care

Stanhopea is not the easiest species to grow, it is a plant for experienced gardeners.

Substrate for orchids

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

Feeding

During the growing season, fertilizing is carried out every 2 weeks with liquid fertilizers specially designed for orchids in half concentration. 

Purpose

Looks great in a hanging basket. 

Flowering time

Summer.

Air humidity

Humidity should be 40 - 75%, this is especially important during the onset of summer heat. Place the pot with the plant on a tray filled with wet pebbles, or use a room humidifier. You can surround the orchid pot with a layer of wet sphagnum moss or spray the leaves with soft water at room temperature, providing the bush with a place with sufficient air movement.

Water orchids at home

During the growth period, keep the soil evenly moist, avoiding stagnation of moisture in the pan. In winter, water sparingly, trying not to dry out the earthen ball. For watering, use softened bottled or rainwater at room temperature. 

Transfer

Adult bushes are replanted approximately every 3-4 years into fresh substrate. Never replant flowering specimens.

Reproduction

By division during transplantation, separation of pseudobulbs or seeds. 

Pests and diseases

When exposed to sunlight, burns appear on the leaves. Leaves dry out and die during prolonged drought. Among the harmful insects that can attack plants are spider mites and scale insects.