Epidendrum orchids are a type of plant that can be either epiphytic or terrestrial perennials. They typically bloom during the spring and summer seasons. These plants belong to the Orchidaceae family and have more than 1,000 known species. Epidendrum orchids prefer bright indirect sunlight exposure and a shallow planting depth in bark mix with sphagnum moss soil type. They are native to Central and South America and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The recommended watering frequency for Epidendrum orchids is once per week. Some common pests that affect Epidendrum orchids include hard brown scale and aphids while water mold, root rot, and fungus are common diseases. To attract hummingbirds and butterflies, consider planting these orchids with palms and succulents. Epidendrum orchids require moderate maintenance and should be planted in individual containers. They are hardy in zones 10-11.
Epidendrums, also known as Reed Orchids or Crucifix Orchids, are primarily found in Central and South America. These plants earned their nicknames due to their appearance. The first Epidendrum orchid bloomed in captivity in England in 1787, marking the beginning of the genus being widely cultivated and studied. With a broad range of colors including yellow, orange, white, red, and purple, these orchids can bloom at any time of the year if properly cared for. They are unique among orchids in that they can even bloom more than once per year. Epidendrum orchids are hardier and more resilient than most types of orchids, making them excellent for novice enthusiasts. They can withstand various climates and conditions due to their prolific growth in their natural habitat. As for classification, Epidendrum orchids belong to the family Orchidaceae.
Epidendrum orchids are a diverse group of plants that originate from the Americas. While most of them are known for being epiphytes, which grow on trees and gather nutrients from the air, there are also a few species that can thrive on the ground as well.
A few species of orchids prefer to grow in soil, while others are known as lithophytes and thrive on rocks. The growth habits of Epidendrum orchids vary, with some being classified as monopodial and others as sympodial. Monopodial orchids like the Reed Epidendrum bloom throughout their lives by growing continuously upward along a central rhizome, easily recognized by their long reed-like stems. On the other hand, sympodial orchids grow horizontally along their rhizome, producing leaves and flower spikes from pseudobulbs. Though each pseudobulb produces only one flower spike, the retained nutrients help support new plant growth.
Keikis
Epidendrums have the unique ability to produce keikis, which are essentially individual plants that can be used for propagation. These orchids belong to a group of three varieties that exhibit this trait. The term “keiki” is derived from Hawaiian and translates to “little one.” This form of asexual reproduction can be both good and bad, as it may indicate an underlying health issue with the parent plant. However, if the mother plant is flourishing, keikis can be an excellent way to propagate new plants.
Keikis draw nutrients from the parent plant, so it’s best to separate them into their own pot as early as possible. You can do this by gently cutting the new plant away from the parent using a clean and sharp blade. The keiki can then be potted on its own, and with time, it will develop into an exact replica of the parent plant.
As there are two types of epidendrum orchids, monopodial and sympodial, we will delve into the process of division for both. Though uncomplicated, the process varies between the two types. Let’s start with the monopodial orchids.
Orchids that are classified as monopodial exhibit a vertical growth pattern, which results in the formation of aerial roots. These types of orchids, such as reed epidendrum orchids, have a central stem or rhizome that grows upward and produces leaves along the reed, blossoming into flowers at the top section. In addition to this, these orchids also produce aerial roots that cling to surfaces for support as they climb upwards. To propagate these orchids, it is recommended to use a sharp blade to cut through the rhizome, making sure that the detached portion contains several leaves and some aerial roots. Place this cutting in moist sphagnum moss for about a month until it develops its own root system. Meanwhile, the parent plant can continue to grow in its existing pot. Alternatively, sympodial orchids exhibit a horizontal growth pattern and are propagated differently.
The phenomenon of Symbiotic Germination is exclusive to controlled laboratory settings since orchid seeds require external nutrients for germination. In their natural habitat, orchid seeds establish a mutualistic association with mycorrhizal fungi, which helps them acquire the required nutrients and utilize them effectively. However, reproducing this process outside a sterile laboratory environment is impossible. The technique to cultivate blooming orchids in this manner is quite complex and time-consuming, spanning several years. Alternatively, Asymbiotic Germination offers an alternative way to grow orchids, which we’ll explore next.
For epiphytic orchids, it is important to provide good air circulation around their exposed roots. They grow on trees without soil, so they absorb and store water in their roots and leaves. This means that they do not require a wet potting medium to stay hydrated. While some epidendrum orchids can be terrestrial or lithophytic, they can also be potted as houseplants. Terrestrial orchids can be planted in the ground with loose and sandy soil that provides good drainage. The best potting mix for orchids is a loose mixture of predominantly bark, perlite, sponge rock, charcoal, and pumice. If you prefer to make your own medium, make sure to achieve maximum air circulation for the roots. Terrestrial orchids need more moisture, so adding sphagnum moss to your potting medium can make them happier. It is important to plant orchids at an appropriate depth to ensure optimal growth and health.
When it comes to planting orchids, the type of pot you choose is crucial. Although depth is not as important, the container itself plays a significant role in your orchid’s growth. Among the most popular options for orchid pots are terracotta pots, decorative ceramic pots, and wooden baskets. Of these, I personally prefer using wooden orchid baskets. These baskets have an open-weave design that replicates the natural habitat of orchids. However, it’s worth noting that they can be quite messy when used indoors since any small pieces of soil can easily fall through the gaps when watering or moving them around.
Terracotta pots for orchids are a great choice since they naturally absorb excess water from the roots, which orchids love. These pots have additional and larger drainage holes that are usually found on the sides and bottom of the pot. On the other hand, decorative ceramic orchid pots are perfect for indoor orchids as they are visually pleasing, but they don’t wick water in the same manner as terracotta pots. Also, some of them come with attached dishes that can cause roots to sit in water, so it’s important to take care of these concerns. As far as planting depth is concerned, orchids can thrive on a piece of bark, so there’s no hard and fast rule to follow. Once you have placed your orchid in its container, carefully fill the space around its roots with a potting mix. To secure the plant while it develops roots, you can use orchid clips or wire. Finally, when it comes to light, orchids need plenty of bright, indirect light, but direct sunlight can scorch their leaves.
To ensure the healthy growth of Epidendrum orchids, it is essential to provide them with bright and indirect light. These beautiful plants require a decent amount of light, but they can tolerate some direct sunlight as well. However, if you notice a bronze color on the leaves, it indicates sunburn, and you should move your orchid away from the direct sun. Without adequate light, Epidendrums will grow too tall and fail to produce flowers, resulting in an unattractive appearance. If you are unable to provide enough light indoors, consider moving your orchid outside during the warmer months. Adequate watering is also crucial for the well-being of these orchids.
To keep your orchids healthy, it’s important to provide them with proper watering habits. While they enjoy being watered generously, it’s crucial to let their roots dry out in between waterings to avoid root rot. Overwatering is the leading cause of failure when it comes to maintaining orchids indoors. During warmer months when your orchid is growing rapidly, you can water it every 4-5 days, especially if it’s kept outside. However, as temperatures drop, it’s best to reduce watering to once a week, allowing the plant to properly dry out. When watering, ensure that you give your orchid a thorough soaking whether it’s from the top or by immersing the pot. Climate and temperature also play a role in keeping your orchids healthy.
Epidendrum orchids are known for their ability to endure colder temperatures, but they thrive in a temperature range of 60° to 90°. While they can withstand 40° temperatures as long as they are protected from the elements, any colder and their leaves may suffer damage. Nevertheless, epidendrums are known for their resilience and can bounce back from cold damage better than other types of orchids.
Typically, these types of orchids flourish in temperatures ranging from 60° to 90° Fahrenheit during the day. While they can tolerate cooler temperatures at night, it is best not to expose them to freezing weather. As important as temperature is to their growth, humidity is even more critical. Epidendrums thrive in an environment with a humidity level of 50% to 80%. Achieving such a high level of humidity may prove challenging in most homes, but placing the orchids in a well-lit bathroom window is an excellent solution. Bathrooms tend to have higher humidity levels than other areas of the house.
If you need to augment humidity levels beyond what the bathroom can provide, you can use a humidifier with caution to prevent oversaturation of water in the surrounding area. Alternatively, misting the plants several times daily can help maintain the required humidity levels, but this may prove tedious. Another option is to place a dish of water with stones under the pot to provide moisture as the water evaporates. The stones raise the pot and prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Regarding fertilization, be mindful of the type of orchid you have and use a fertilizer specially formulated for that genus. Fertilize once or twice a month during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter months. With proper care and attention to temperature, humidity, and nutrients, your orchids should thrive beautifully.
To keep your orchids healthy and blooming, it is recommended to fertilize them every week with a fertilizer specifically designed for orchids. During their growth period, weekly fertilization provides them with the extra nutrients they need. However, during their dormant period, which is after their blooms fall until the next growth period, you can reduce fertilization to every 3-4 weeks. It’s also important to flush the roots every three weeks to remove any salt buildup. You can easily find orchid-specific fertilizers at stores where orchids are sold. If not available, a general fertilizer that is balanced like 10-10-10, diluted to half strength, can be a substitute.
In maintaining your orchids, it is essential to inspect them regularly as they are susceptible to insects and diseases. Early detection is crucial in preventing the spread of problems and preserving the plant.
Lastly, pruning is another crucial aspect of caring for orchids.
To promote new growth, it is recommended to eliminate withered flower spikes. While pruning is not necessary for epidendrums and most other orchids, it is crucial to retain old pseudobulbs until they are no longer useful to newer growth. Once they appear brown and desiccated, they can be excised with a sterile and sharp tool to promote rapid healing. Removing exhausted flower spikes can be accomplished by cutting them above the node closest to the base, which will encourage nutrients to be redirected back into the plant and stimulate new growth. However, keep in mind that epidendrums may bloom twice in a season on the same spike or produce keiki from spent flower spikes, so the decision to remove them is at the discretion of the grower.
Different types of this species are well-liked and can be cultivated, with diverse flower hues. Let’s explore some of these well-known blooms that you may include in your assortment of orchids. One of them is the Purple Reed Orchid.
To keep your sun-loving plants healthy, make sure they get plenty of bright, indirect light. This means placing them near a window or in a spot where they can soak up the sun’s rays without getting scorched. With the right lighting conditions, your plants will thrive and bring some natural beauty into your space.
SUN PREFERENCES
Adequate Indirect Sunlight
The hardiness zones for this stunning reed stem epidendrum hybrid are 9-11. Its beautiful flowers bloom in clusters of vibrant orange and yellow petals and sepals, with a touch of red on the petal edges to add dimension. The labellum of these delicate flowers is particularly noteworthy, featuring a bright yellow sunburst at the center of each perfect bloom. In addition, this Epidendrum variety is known for its night fragrance.
The scientific name for this plant is Epidendrum nocturnum Jacq.
The hardiness zones suited for this plant range from 9 to 12. It is a unique type that can be found in Central America and Florida, and it boasts the largest flowers among its genus. While it is not a typical houseplant, it has distinctive features that make it worthy of recognition. This plant mainly thrives in swamps and hammocks.
The flower has elongated, slender yellowish-green sepals and petals with a highly noticeable labellum. It doesn’t rely on insects for pollination, as it is self-pollinating. The lip of the flower has three significant white lobes that are surrounded by a white column, and a hint of yellow can be seen beneath the anther cap. This flower is known as the Ballerina Yellow.
Black rot, a disease that spreads through water, can be easily contracted by bringing an infected plant into your home and allowing the water to splash onto an uninfected one. While maintaining good hygiene is crucial in preventing most diseases, sometimes it can still happen without our knowledge. Therefore, it’s important to observe any changes in your plant’s foliage. To avoid all types of rot in orchids, it’s recommended to keep them elevated off the ground outside, maintain proper air circulation around them, and immediately trim off any infected leaves at the first sign of infection. Another disease to watch out for is Botrytis Petal Blight.
The appearance of brown spots on flowers can quickly lead to the destruction of orchids due to the fungus botrytis cinerea. This type of fungus thrives in cool and damp environments, which can be created indoors when increasing humidity levels while maintaining comfortable temperatures. Since botrytis is an airborne fungus, it can be challenging to control its spread. The initial signs of infection include the appearance of brown spots on new growth and flowers, which quickly spreads, causing significant damage to the plant. Although fungicide treatments are available, damaged tissue must be removed and disposed of to keep the plant healthy. To prevent infection, ensure good airflow in rooms with raised humidity, maintain healthy hygiene practices while watering plants, and isolate infected plants immediately. Orchid care is a labor of love, but it’s worth the effort as they produce beautiful and exotic flowers that bring joy for many years. For beginners, epidendrum orchids are a great choice as they are hardy, resilient, and easy to care for. These plants can bloom nearly year-round with the right care and conditions, and with more than 1,000 varieties to choose from, collecting wonderful epidendrums can become a fun hobby.