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Description
Epidendrum Arevaloi, also known as Arevalo’s Epidendrum, is a beautiful species of orchid native to the Andes mountains of Colombia. It was discovered in 2009 and named after the Colombian botanist Alvaro Arevalo. This orchid has quickly gained popularity among orchid enthusiasts due to its stunning blooms and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Epidendrum |
| Species | Arevaloi |
Appearance
Epidendrum Arevaloi has tall, slender stems that can reach up to 3 feet in height. Its leaves are long, narrow, and dark green in color. The orchid’s flowers are its most striking feature, with large, showy blooms that can range in color from pale pink to deep purple. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with three large petals and three smaller sepals. The lip of the flower is often a contrasting color and has a frilly, ruffled edge.
Care Guide
Epidendrum Arevaloi is a relatively easy orchid to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some tips for keeping your orchid healthy:
- Water: Epidendrum Arevaloi prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not soaking wet. Water your orchid once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Feed your orchid with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for orchids.
- Soil: Epidendrum Arevaloi prefers a well-draining potting mix that is specifically formulated for orchids. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
- Sunlight: Epidendrum Arevaloi prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing your orchid in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Epidendrum Arevaloi is not cold-hardy and should be kept indoors in all but the warmest climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epidendrum Arevaloi is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the leaves and stems of your orchid. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be difficult to spot, but they can cause damage to the leaves of your orchid. Use a miticide to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to your orchid. Make sure to let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Epidendrum Arevaloi is native to the Andes mountains of Colombia, where it grows in the cool, moist cloud forests at elevations of 6,000 to 8,000 feet. It is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on trees rather than in soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Epidendrum Arevaloi?
A: Water your orchid once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Epidendrum Arevaloi prefer direct sunlight?
A: No, this orchid prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use on my Epidendrum Arevaloi?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for orchids, and feed your orchid every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Epidendrum Arevaloi?
A: This orchid is not cold-hardy and should be kept indoors in all but the warmest climates.
Related Plants
- Epidendrum nocturnum
- Epidendrum radicans
- Epidendrum ibaguense
- Epidendrum ciliare
References
- “Epidendrum arevaloi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=267410.
- “Epidendrum arevaloi.” OrchidWiz, www.orchidwiz.com/orchids/epidendrum/arevaloi.
- “Epidendrum arevaloi.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/232276/i-Epidendrum-arevaloi-i/Details.
