Robiquetia

Description

Robiquetia is a genus of orchids that comprises more than 100 species. These epiphytes are native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and northern Australia. The name Robiquetia honours the French chemist Pierre Jean Robiquet (1780–1840).

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Robiquetia orchids have cylindrical or conical pseudobulbs that are usually clustered. The leaves are narrow, strap-shaped, and leathery. The inflorescences are racemes, spikes, or panicles that emerge from the base of the pseudobulbs or from the nodes of the rhizomes. The flowers are small to medium-sized and can be variously coloured, including white, yellow, green, pink, and red. The lip is usually a different colour from the sepals and petals and can be variously shaped, including triangular, oblong, or ovate.

Care Guide

Robiquetia orchids are relatively easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors in tropical or subtropical regions.

• Water: Water frequently during the growing season, but allow the roots to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the dormant season.
• Fertilization: Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
• Soil: Grow Robiquetia orchids in a well-draining orchid mix, such as sphagnum moss, bark, or perlite.
• Sunlight: Provide bright but indirect sunlight, such as near a south-facing window or under a shade cloth. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Robiquetia orchids are not cold-hardy and should be protected from temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

Common Pests & Diseases

Robiquetia orchids are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the leaves and pseudobulbs and cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing. Treat with a miticide.
• Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can infest the roots, leaves, and flowers and cause stunting, wilting, and deformities. Treat with insecticidal soap.
• Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which can lead to yellowing, wilting, and collapse. Treat by removing the affected parts and improving the growing conditions.

Habitat

Robiquetia orchids are epiphytes that grow on trees or rocks in humid forests, often at elevations of 1000-2000 metres (3300-6600 feet). They prefer high humidity, good air circulation, and moderate to bright light.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I repot my Robiquetia orchid?

A: Repot your Robiquetia orchid every 2-3 years or when the potting mix has broken down or become waterlogged.

Q: Can I grow Robiquetia orchids in a terrarium?

A: Yes, Robiquetia orchids can be grown in a terrarium as long as there is adequate air circulation and the humidity is high.

Q: Do Robiquetia orchids need a winter rest period?

A: Robiquetia orchids do not have a strict winter rest period, but they may slow down or stop growing during the cooler months.

Q: How can I increase the humidity around my Robiquetia orchid?

A: You can increase the humidity around your Robiquetia orchid by placing it on a tray of pebbles filled with water, misting it regularly, or using a humidifier.

Related Plants

• Bulbophyllum
• Dendrobium
• Epidendrum
• Laelia
• Phalaenopsis
• Vanda

References

• Christenson, E. A. (2001). Robiquetia. In: Orchidaceae of West-Central Africa, vol. 1 (ed. by J. D. Lafleur). Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, pp. 555-556.
• Pridgeon, A. M., Cribb, P. J., Chase, M. W., and Rasmussen, F. N. (2005). Genera Orchidacearum, vol. 4: Epidendroideae (Part 1). Oxford University Press, Oxford.
• Sheehan, T. J. (2016). Robiquetia. In: Flora of North America North of Mexico, vol. 26 (ed. by Flora of North America Editorial Committee). Oxford University Press, New York, pp. 124-125.