An epiphytic, evergreen, dwarf-sized orchid with egg-shaped, 1.2cm small pseudobulbs carrying a single, 2cm long and 0.5cm wide, dark-green, oval leaf. In late autumn and early winter, flowering stems emerge from the base of mature pseudobulbs. Each stem up to 4cm long carries a single, bright red, 2.5cm small flower
Up to 10 cm
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in an open, free-draining, medium-grade, bark-based orchid mix with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Requires day temperatures around 18-20°C and 14-16°C at night. Provide good light levels, but avoid direct sunlight. Water plants thoroughly when compost is almost dry, allow to drain and use orchid fertiliser regularly during growing season. See also indoor orchid cultivation
Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided in early or mid spring, when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3-4 healthy, older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting
No pruning required
May be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite, scale insects and mealybugs
Generally disease-free. Poor air movement and soggy potting mix may cause risk of bacterial infections