Phragmipedium

Family. Orchidaceae.

Origin. Mexico, South America.

Description. The genus Phragmipedium includes about 20 species of large evergreen orchids, including epiphytes, terrestrial plants and lithophytes. Representatives of this genus do not have pseudobulbs. Green linear leaves are gracefully curved, reaching a length of 60 cm. Peduncles are tall, leafless and bear several amazing flowers at the top. Flowers have large, bag-like lips. Sepals often hang from the flowers in beautiful twisted ribbons. The color of the petals varies from white to pink, red, yellow, lilac, greenish and orange. Depending on the variety, buds can open sequentially or simultaneously.

Height. Develops quickly and reaches 40 - 80 cm in height.

Care

Temperature conditions

Phragmipedium does not like summer heat and prefers to be kept at a temperature of 18 - 24 ° C. At night, plants will appreciate a decrease in temperature to 12 - 16 ° C.

Lighting

In spring and summer it needs shading from direct sunlight; in autumn and winter place it in a well-lit place. Grows successfully under artificial lighting.

Soil for phragmipediums

The soil should have an acidic pH and consist of pine bark, sphagnum moss, coconut fiber with the addition of small pieces of charcoal. 

Feeding

As growth begins, feed the orchids with fertilizer at half strength every 2 weeks. In autumn, feeding is stopped until spring. 

Purpose

Phragmipedium is ideal for growing in hanging baskets, but will require plenty of space.

Flowering time

Spring – summer, flowering period can take up to 6 months. 

Air humidity

Humidity should average 50 - 70%, and the plant should be kept in a well-ventilated area with constant air circulation. 

Place the pot on a tray filled with wet pebbles or use a room humidifier. You can surround the container with a layer of damp sphagnum moss or mist the leaves with soft, room-temperature water, being careful not to let water get on the flowers and buds. Misting should be done in the morning so that the moisture evaporates from the plant before dark.

Watering

Watering must be regular, since these plants are not equipped with pseudobulbs and have nowhere to store moisture reserves. Reduce the frequency of watering slightly during the fall and winter. 

Transplant

Phragmipedium requires annual spring replanting, which is carried out when new growth begins. Do not replant flowering orchids - wait until after flowering. 

Reproduction

Large specimens are divided during transplantation. 

Pests and diseases

Among the harmful insects, spider mites can attack the flower.  If you take the plant out into the fresh air, it may be susceptible to infestations of snails and slugs.