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Description
Epidendrum Ibaguense, commonly known as the Ibagué Epidendrum, is a species of orchid native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It grows epiphytically on trees, rocks, and other surfaces, and can reach up to 80cm in height. The plant produces elongated stems that bear alternate, fleshy leaves. The inflorescence is a loose, branching cluster of up to 30 flowers. The flowers are small and relatively unspectacular, with white or greenish petals and sepals, and a small, tubular lip. They have a light, pleasant scent.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Epidendrum |
Appearance
Epidendrum Ibaguense is an attractive plant with elongated, fleshy stems and leaves, and small, delicate flowers. The stems are green and can grow up to 80cm in height. The leaves are oblong or elliptical in shape, and can reach up to 15cm in length. They are glossy and dark green, with a slightly waxy texture. The inflorescence is a loose, branching cluster of up to 30 small flowers, each about 2cm in diameter. The petals and sepals are white or greenish, with a slightly ruffled appearance. The lip is tubular and white or pale pink in color.
Care Guide
Epidendrum Ibaguense is a relatively easy plant to care for, provided that its basic needs are met. Here are some tips for keeping this orchid healthy and happy:- Water: Epidendrum Ibaguense likes to be kept moist, but not soaking wet. Water it regularly, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This will help prevent root rot.- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce the frequency in the fall and winter.- Soil: This orchid can be grown in a variety of potting mixes, including sphagnum moss, bark, or a combination of both. Make sure the mix is well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.- Sunlight: Epidendrum Ibaguense prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and flowers.- Hardiness Zones: This orchid is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epidendrum Ibaguense is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by common orchid pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of neem oil and water. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as black rot or crown rot, which are caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent these diseases, make sure to water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry, and ensure that the potting mix is well-draining.
Habitat
Epidendrum Ibaguense is native to the Andean region of South America, where it grows in forests, on trees, rocks, and other surfaces. It can be found at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 meters above sea level. The plant is adapted to the cool, moist conditions of the Andean cloud forests, and is able to tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epidendrum Ibaguense a rare orchid?
A: Epidendrum Ibaguense is not considered a rare orchid, but it is not commonly cultivated in the horticultural trade.
Q: How often should I water my Epidendrum Ibaguense?
A: Water your plant regularly, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. This will help prevent root rot.
Q: Can Epidendrum Ibaguense be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this orchid can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How do I propagate Epidendrum Ibaguense?
A: This orchid can be propagated by dividing the plant at the base of the stem and repotting the divisions in fresh potting mix.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Epidendrum cinnabarinum- Epidendrum magnoliae- Epidendrum radicans- Epidendrum secundum- Epidendrum stamfordianum
References
– “Epidendrum Ibaguense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 Aug. 2021.
