Hardy small orchid species from Nicaragua with pink flowers

Epidendrum centropetalum is an elegant and exotic orchid species with graceful, star-shaped flowers in a beautiful intense pink-purple shade. The flowers are held in airy clusters on tall, slender stems and have a light and airy appearance. The unique shape and soft color tone with a white spot at the base make this species particularly attractive to orchid enthusiasts.

The plant is a small to medium-sized orchid with stems that produce lateral shoots. It bears 5-21 leaves distributed almost along the entire stem.

Flowering occurs from late winter to summer from the mature stem on a slightly arched inflorescence with 4-13 flowers at a time. The flowers are scentless unlike the similar E. aberrans .

Botanical description

Epidendrum centropetalum is native to Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama in moist lower montane evergreen forests at elevations between 1200-1500 meters in full to partial sun. It can be easily found in fruit trees near its natural habitat.

The species is recognized by the very short inflorescence with intense pink flowers, the lateral triangular the lobes, and large central lobe in the shape of an inverted "V", with a large white spot at the base.

Care

Epidendrum centropetalum is a relatively hardy species that thrives in bright locations with high humidity and good ventilation. It can be grown mounted on twigs, cork or bark, as long as high humidity can be provided, but in summer it requires watering at least once a day.

If the plants are grown in pots, the substrate must be very loose and quickly drain away excess water. Whatever substrate is used, it must allow free access for the roots. You can repot after observing the growth of new roots. We recommend our orchid soil .

From late spring to autumn, the plant should be watered frequently during full growth, but the roots must always dry quickly after watering. At the end of the growing season, in late autumn, the amount of water supplied should be reduced.

Fertilize the plant weekly with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended dose of orchid fertilizer. A fertilizer with a high nitrogen content is beneficial from spring to midsummer, and a fertilizer richer in phosphorus should be used in late summer and autumn.

During the winter, watering should be somewhat restricted, but the plant should not be allowed to stand dry for long periods. Fertilization should be limited until spring, when heavier watering is resumed.

The species has a wet-dry growth habit that requires high humidity and water all year round but less when mature. With the right care, it can bloom several times a year and add a tropical feel to its surroundings. Especially when grown in a terrarium! Buy Epidendrun centropetalum online!