Contents
Description
Maxillaria Variabilis is a species of orchid that originates from South America. It is commonly known as the “variable Maxillaria.” This orchid is a epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants, and can be found in the Andes mountains of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It is a popular choice for orchid 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 |
| Species | Maxillaria Variabilis |
Appearance
Maxillaria Variabilis can grow up to 8 inches tall and produce up to 15 flowers per stem. The flowers themselves are small, about 1 inch across, and are yellow or green with brown spots. The sepals and petals are similar in size and shape, and the lip is large and frilly. The leaves are narrow and elongated, growing up to 10 inches long. The orchid’s pseudobulbs are small and cylindrical, and can be green or brown in color.
Care Guide
Maxillaria Variabilis is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this orchid:Water: Water this orchid once a week, allowing the water to drain completely before returning it to its pot.Fertilization: Fertilize this orchid once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced orchid fertilizer.Soil: This orchid prefers a well-draining orchid mix, such as a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.Sunlight: This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Maxillaria Variabilis is not a cold-hardy plant and should be kept indoors in a warm environment.
Common Pests & Diseases
Maxillaria Variabilis is susceptible to common orchid pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This orchid is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Maxillaria Variabilis can be found growing in the Andes mountains of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It grows as an epiphyte on other plants, such as trees and shrubs, at elevations between 1,500 and 3,500 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Maxillaria Variabilis be grown outdoors?
A: This orchid is not cold-hardy and should be kept indoors in a warm environment.Q: How often should Maxillaria Variabilis be watered?
A: This orchid should be watered once a week, allowing the water to drain completely before returning it to its pot.Q: What kind of soil does Maxillaria Variabilis prefer?
A: This orchid prefers a well-draining orchid mix, such as a mix of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.Q: What is the appearance of Maxillaria Variabilis?
A: Maxillaria Variabilis can grow up to 8 inches tall and produce up to 15 flowers per stem. The flowers themselves are small, about 1 inch across, and are yellow or green with brown spots. The leaves are narrow and elongated, growing up to 10 inches long.
Related Plants
Other orchids in the Maxillaria genus include Maxillaria Tenuifolia, Maxillaria Schunkeana, Maxillaria Luteoalba, and Maxillaria Picta.
References
– “Maxillaria Variabilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h840- “Maxillaria Variabilis.” Orchid Species. http://www.orchidspecies.com/maxvar.htm- “Maxillaria Variabilis.” Orchid Care Zone. https://www.orchidcarezone.com/maxillaria-variabilis/
