A compact, epiphytic orchid with short, clump-forming pseudobulbs. Each pseudobulb is 3-5cm long, four-ribbed, carrying one oval, dark-green, leathery leaf. Up to 15cm long, arching flowering stems emerge from nodes near the tip of mature pseudobulbs and carry 1 to five, short-lived, yellow flowers. The flowers are 3cm large, with darker yellow-orange centre.
Up to 10 cm
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 pot 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. It is a warm-growing orchid and the temperatures should not drop below 16°C. It can be grown similarly to Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) but requires much brighter conditions. For best results in cultivation, temperatures should drop at least 10°C at night time. Provide indirect light and high humidity by misting regularly in spring and summer, then move the plant to a bright, room in autumn and winter. Ensure that roots dry-out between the waterings, especially in winter. 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. Remove spent flowers as necessary.
May be susceptible to scale insects, aphids, mealybugs and red spider mite.
Generally disease-free.