Epidendrum Ciliare

Description

Epidendrum Ciliare, commonly known as the “fringed star orchid,” is a stunning epiphytic orchid that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. This perennial plant is native to Central and South America, including Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela. It usually grows in forests, wetlands, and rocky areas at elevations of up to 2,000 meters.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Epidendrum Ciliare has long, thin stems that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The stems are covered in small, pointed leaves that are about 2-4 centimeters long. The plant blooms in the summer and early fall, producing clusters of fragrant flowers that can be up to 8 centimeters in diameter. The flowers are star-shaped and have fringed edges, hence the common name “fringed star orchid.” The petals and sepals are usually greenish-yellow or lime-green, while the lip is white with a yellow or orange center. The plant’s striking appearance makes it a popular choice for orchid enthusiasts and collectors.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential for the healthy growth and development of Epidendrum Ciliare. Here are some tips to follow:

• Water: The plant prefers regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: Epidendrum Ciliare is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Epidendrum Ciliare is susceptible to pests and diseases, including:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers.
• Scale insects: These insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and cause damage.
• Fungal diseases: Epidendrum Ciliare is susceptible to various fungal diseases, including root rot and leaf spot.

To prevent these issues, keep the plant in optimal growing conditions and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation or disease.

Habitat

Epidendrum Ciliare is native to Central and South America, where it grows in forests, wetlands, and rocky areas at elevations of up to 2,000 meters. It is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other plants, such as trees, and derives its nutrients from the air and rainwater. The plant’s natural habitat is humid and warm, with temperatures ranging from 18-30°C.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water Epidendrum Ciliare?

A: The plant prefers regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Q: What kind of soil does Epidendrum Ciliare prefer?

A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite.

Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Epidendrum Ciliare?

A: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Q: Is Epidendrum Ciliare hardy?

A: Yes, it is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Related Plants

Other orchids in the Epidendrum genus include:

• Epidendrum ibaguense
• Epidendrum secundum
• Epidendrum radicans
• Epidendrum stamfordianum

References

• “Epidendrum ciliare.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276954&isprofile=0&=&chr=3&ss=8&compcolor=FFFFFF&compp=0>
• “Epidendrum ciliare.” Orchids Made Easy. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.orchidsmadeeasy.com/epidendrum-ciliare/>
• “Epidendrum ciliare.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101224/i-Epidendrum-ciliare-i/Details>