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Description
Maxillaria Elatior is a beautiful orchid species with intricate, delicate blooms. It is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. The plant has pseudobulbs that grow to be about 8 inches tall and 1 inch in diameter. The leaves are long and narrow, growing to be about 12 inches in length. The blooms are small, only about 1 inch in diameter, but they are intricate and unique. The flowers are typically yellow or pink with intricate patterns and spots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Maxillaria |
Appearance
Maxillaria Elatior is a stunning orchid species that has unique and intricate blooms. The plant has pseudobulbs that grow to be about 8 inches tall and 1 inch in diameter. The leaves are long and narrow, growing to be about 12 inches in length. The flowers are small, only about 1 inch in diameter, but they are intricate and unique. The blooms are typically yellow or pink with intricate patterns and spots. The lip of the flower is elongated and has a somewhat hairy texture, which makes it stand out even more.
Care Guide
Maxillaria Elatior requires specific care to thrive. Here are some care tips to help your plant flourish:Water: Maxillaria Elatior requires moderate watering. Make sure to water the plant when the potting mix is almost dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize Maxillaria Elatior with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.Soil: Maxillaria Elatior prefers well-draining orchid potting mix. Avoid using regular potting soil, as it can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot.Sunlight: Maxillaria Elatior requires bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: Maxillaria Elatior is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Maxillaria Elatior is susceptible to common orchid pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases, which can be prevented by keeping the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Maxillaria Elatior is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. It is typically found growing in humid forests and cloud forests, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Maxillaria Elatior?
A: Water Maxillaria Elatior when the potting mix is almost dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Maxillaria Elatior?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer for Maxillaria Elatior every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.Q: What kind of sunlight does Maxillaria Elatior require?
A: Maxillaria Elatior requires bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and flowers.Q: What kind of pests can affect Maxillaria Elatior?
A: Maxillaria Elatior is susceptible to common orchid pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Related Plants
Here are some related orchid species:- Maxillaria Tenuifolia- Maxillaria Variabilis- Maxillaria Schunkeana- Maxillaria Picta
References
– “Maxillaria Elatior (Lindl.) Rchb.f.” GBIF. https://www.gbif.org/species/5322794- “Maxillaria Elatior.” Orchids Made Easy. https://orchidsguru.com/maxillaria-elatior/ – “Maxillaria Elatior.” OrchidWeb. https://www.orchidweb.com/product/maxillaria-elatior-a-fancy-tropical-orchid-species/
