Valeria Valkova A small to medium-sized, epiphytic or lithophytic, tropical orchid with thin, pencil-like, fleshy green leaves, approximately 4-10cm long. Thin, pendulous stems grow up to 70cm long. Solitary, upside-down flowers emerge from the axils of leaves and are approximately 2cm across. Petals and sepals are pale green, lip is white with purple markings.
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Plants are best grown mounted on cork bark or wood if sufficient humidity can be provided. Alternatively, grow in a basket in an epiphytic, medium grade, bark-based potting mix with added perlite, moss, or coir. As with many orchids, they grow best when the roots are slightly restricted. Therefore, avoid over-potting or frequent root disturbance. Provide bright light and sufficient humidity by misting regularly throughout the growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter until warmer temperatures initiate flowering and new growth in spring. See indoor orchid cultivation
Propagation by seed is only possible in controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows the pot. Sideshoots (keiki) may develop on older canes - remove and pot them into sphagnum moss when the new roots are at least 2cm long.
No pruning required.
May be susceptible to scale insects, aphids, mealybugs and red spider mite.
Generally disease-free.