Contents
Description
Epidendrum Eximium is a species of orchid native to Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. It belongs to the family Orchidaceae, which is one of the largest families of flowering plants. The plant produces long and arching stems that can reach up to 1.5 meters in length. Each stem can bear up to 20 flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are typically yellow with a red lip and a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Epidendrum |
Appearance
Epidendrum Eximium is a tall and slender plant with long, thin stems. The stems are typically green, but can also have a reddish tint. The leaves are small and narrow, and grow along the stem in a spiral pattern. The flowers are the most striking feature of the plant, with their bright yellow color and red lip. Each flower is about 5 centimeters in diameter and has a sweet scent that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
Epidendrum Eximium is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this orchid:- Water: This plant prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water it once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter.- Soil: Use well-draining orchid potting mix or a mixture of bark, perlite, and charcoal.- Sunlight: Epidendrum Eximium prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Epidendrum Eximium is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny insects can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the plant and suck out its juices. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Epidendrum Eximium is found in the tropical rainforests of Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. It grows as an epiphyte, meaning it attaches itself to trees or other plants and absorbs nutrients from the air and rainwater.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Epidendrum Eximium?
A: Water your plant once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Epidendrum Eximium?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter.
Q: Can I grow Epidendrum Eximium indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How long do the flowers of Epidendrum Eximium last?
A: The flowers can last up to several weeks, depending on the conditions.
Related Plants
– Epidendrum nocturnum- Epidendrum ibaguense- Epidendrum ciliare- Epidendrum porpax
References
– “Epidendrum Eximium Lindl.” The Plant List. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-67455.- “Epidendrum Eximium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279988&isprofile=0&.- “Epidendrum Eximium.” Orchids Made Easy. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.orchidsmadeeasy.com/epidendrum-eximium/.
