Epidendrum radicans mix

Epidendrum radicans is a selection of Epidendrum radicans, valued for its vigorous stems and abundant inflorescences. It is an orchid suited to a very bright location, balcony, or sheltered terrace during the summer.

About this plant

Epidendrum radicans is a terrestrial orchid species, commonly known as the “Rainbow Orchid” or “Fire Star Orchid”. 
A special characteristic of this orchid genus is its tendency to extend its roots along the entire length of the stem. It is found in Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia. Like other members of the subgenus Amphioglottium, radicans is a sympodial species with stems that do not develop swollen pseudobulbs; instead, they are covered by overlapping sheaths that extend to the basal area of the inflorescence inserted at the apex.
As is characteristic of the subgenus, the presence of a labellum adnate (fused) to the column toward its apex can be observed. The labellum is trilobed, as in other members of the Schistochila section, with lacerated lobes typical of the Carinata and Tuberculata subsections. 
The chromosome number of an individual collected in Ecuador was determined to be 2n = 60. However, other data indicate values of 2n = 40, 2n = 57, 2n = 62, and 2n = 64 for this species. 

Height including pot: approx. 30 cm

This variety repeatedly reflowers on the same flower spike—do not remove spent flower spikes.

Note: The specimens in stock also have leaves with defects. 

Quick care guide

• Light: plenty of light; gentle morning sun or bright filtered light.
• Watering: water when the surface of the growing medium begins to dry; do not allow water to stagnate.
• Temperature: it can stay outdoors in summer after acclimatization, but protect it from prolonged cold and frost.
• Growing medium and stems: airy mix with good drainage; do not cut the aerial roots or green stems.
• Fertilization: during the growing season, apply diluted orchid fertilizer; do not fertilize completely dry growing medium.

For detailed explanations about flowering, repotting, and problems, read the complete Epidendrum radicans guide.