Lepanthes Tibouchinicola

Description

Lepanthes Tibouchinicola, also known as the Yellow-flowered Lepanthes, is a beautiful and rare orchid species that belongs to the family of Orchidaceae. This orchid is native to Colombia, where it grows in the cloud forests at an altitude of 2,000 to 3,000 meters. Lepanthes Tibouchinicola is known for its stunning yellow flowers, which bloom from January to March.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lepanthes Tibouchinicola is a small-sized orchid that grows up to 2.5 cm in height. It has thin and delicate leaves that are about 1 cm long and 0.3 cm wide. The flowers of this orchid are yellow in color, and they have a unique shape that resembles a butterfly. The petals of the flower are narrow and elongated, while the lip is much broader and rounder. The flower stalks are thin, and they hold the flowers upright. This orchid is perfect for those who want to add a touch of elegance and beauty to their garden.

Care Guide

To take care of Lepanthes Tibouchinicola, you need to provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this orchid:

Water: This orchid needs to be watered regularly, but make sure not to overwater it. Allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering again.

Fertilization: Fertilize this orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. This orchid prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5.

Sunlight: Provide this orchid with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.

Hardiness Zones: Lepanthes Tibouchinicola can only grow in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11. This orchid cannot tolerate cold temperatures below 50°F.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lepanthes Tibouchinicola is susceptible to pests and diseases that affect other orchid species. Some of the common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent pest infestations, keep the orchid clean and free from debris. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests. Some of the common diseases that affect this orchid include bacterial and fungal infections. To prevent diseases, make sure to provide the orchid with proper air circulation and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Lepanthes Tibouchinicola is native to Colombia, where it grows in the cloud forests at an altitude of 2,000 to 3,000 meters. This orchid prefers to grow in a moist and humid environment with moderate to bright indirect sunlight. It can also grow epiphytically on trees or rocks in its natural habitat.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Lepanthes Tibouchinicola grow in a terrarium?

A: Yes, this orchid can grow in a terrarium as long as it is provided with the right conditions, such as high humidity and moderate to bright indirect sunlight.

Q: How often should I fertilize Lepanthes Tibouchinicola?

A: You should fertilize this orchid once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Q: Can Lepanthes Tibouchinicola tolerate direct sunlight?

A: No, this orchid cannot tolerate direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and flowers.

Q: How often should I water Lepanthes Tibouchinicola?

A: You should water this orchid regularly, but make sure not to overwater it. Allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering again.

Related Plants

Other related plants to Lepanthes Tibouchinicola include:

• Lepanthes calodictyon
• Lepanthes telipogoniflora
• Lepanthes tsubotae
• Lepanthes urceolata

References

• Christenson, E. A. (2001). Lepanthes of Ecuador: A systematic revision. Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
• Dressler, R. L. (1993). Field guide to the orchids of Costa Rica and Panama. Cornell University Press.
• Orchids Wiki. (n.d.). Lepanthes Tibouchinicola. Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://www.orchids.wiki/lepanthes_tibouchinicola/