Contents
Description
Maxillaria Densa is an epiphytic orchid that is native to South America. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is known for its stunning and fragrant flowers. This orchid is popular among collectors and enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Maxillaria |
Appearance
Maxillaria Densa has thin, elongated leaves that are light green in color. Its flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 5cm in diameter. They are typically yellow, orange, or red in color and have a sweet, fruity fragrance. The lip of the flower is broad and flattened, with a white or purple blotch near the center. The plant can reach a height of up to 30cm and has a sprawling growth habit.
Care Guide
Maxillaria Densa is a relatively easy orchid to care for, but it does have specific requirements. Here are some tips for keeping this plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your Maxillaria Densa once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant period. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and be sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed your Maxillaria Densa every other week during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. During the dormant period, reduce fertilization to once a month.
Soil: Maxillaria Densa prefers a well-draining orchid mix, such as bark, sphagnum moss, or perlite. Avoid using regular potting soil as this can hold too much moisture.
Sunlight: This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Maxillaria Densa is not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors or in a greenhouse in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Maxillaria Densa is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: These pests look like cottony masses on the plant and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be identified by brown, mushy roots. To prevent this, allow the soil to dry out between waterings and be sure to use a well-draining orchid mix.
Habitat
Maxillaria Densa is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It grows in a variety of habitats, including cloud forests and montane forests. It is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on trees and other plants rather than in soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Maxillaria Densa?
A: Water your Maxillaria Densa once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant period.
Q: What kind of soil does Maxillaria Densa prefer?
A: Maxillaria Densa prefers a well-draining orchid mix, such as bark, sphagnum moss, or perlite.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Maxillaria Densa?
A: Maxillaria Densa prefers temperatures between 18°C and 25°C.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Maxillaria Densa?
A: Feed your Maxillaria Densa every other week during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. During the dormant period, reduce fertilization to once a month.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Maxillaria Densa:
- Maxillaria Tenuifolia
- Maxillaria Schunkeana
- Maxillaria Variabilis
- Maxillaria Picta
References
- “Maxillaria Densa.” Orchids Wiki, www.orchids.wiki/Maxillaria_densa.
- “Maxillaria Densa.” World of Flowering Plants, 10 Feb. 2019, worldoffloweringplants.com/maxillaria-densa-orchid/.
- “Maxillaria Densa.” Orchid Nature, 22 Mar. 2021, orchidnature.com/2021/03/22/maxillaria-densa-care-guide/.
