Epidendrum Subnutans

Description

Epidendrum Subnutans is a species of orchid native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants without harming them. This orchid has long, thin leaves and produces clusters of small flowers that vary in color from pale pink to dark red. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are long-lasting, making Epidendrum Subnutans a popular choice for cut flower arrangements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Epidendrum Subnutans typically grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The leaves can be up to 12 inches long and are dark green in color. The flowers grow in clusters of up to 20 blooms and can be up to 1 inch in diameter. The petals and sepals are narrow and pointed, while the lip of the flower is wider and more rounded. The color of the flowers can vary from pale pink to dark red, with some plants producing flowers that are a combination of both colors.

Care Guide

Epidendrum Subnutans is a relatively easy orchid to care for. Here are some tips to help it thrive:

• Water: Epidendrum Subnutans should be watered once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season. It is important to let the potting mix dry out slightly between waterings.
• Fertilization: This orchid should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.
• Soil: Epidendrum Subnutans should be potted in a mix of orchid bark and sphagnum moss.
• Sunlight: This orchid prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be protected from direct sun, which can burn the leaves and flowers.
• Hardiness Zones: Epidendrum Subnutans is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Epidendrum Subnutans is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and die. Spider mites can be controlled with a solution of water and soap.
• Mealybugs: These pests look like small balls of cotton and can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Mealybugs can be removed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
• Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To prevent root rot, make sure the potting mix is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

Habitat

Epidendrum Subnutans is native to the Andes Mountains in South America, where it grows as an epiphyte in cloud forests at elevations of up to 10,000 feet. It prefers cool, humid conditions and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I fertilize Epidendrum Subnutans?

A: This orchid should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer.

Q: Can Epidendrum Subnutans tolerate direct sunlight?

A: No, this orchid prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be protected from direct sun, which can burn the leaves and flowers.

Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Epidendrum Subnutans?

A: This orchid prefers cool temperatures and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: How often should I water Epidendrum Subnutans?

A: Epidendrum Subnutans should be watered once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season. It is important to let the potting mix dry out slightly between waterings.

Related Plants

• Epidendrum ciliare
• Epidendrum ibaguense
• Epidendrum nocturnum
• Epidendrum radicans

References

• “Epidendrum subnutans.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=79320
• “Epidendrum subnutans.” Orchids.org. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.orchids.org/grexes/epidendrum-subnutans
• “Epidendrum subnutans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f604