Promenaea xanthina - fragrant flowers

Promenaea xanthina is a rare species of epiphytic orchid native to the tropical forests of Brazil, valued for its bright yellow, waxy flowers, with a slightly rounded shape and a subtle fragrance. This small-sized orchid belongs to the Orchidaceae family and is ideal for orchid collectors or for lovers of unusual plants, suited for growing in terrariums, display cases, or spaces with high humidity.

It has sympodial growth and forms small pseudobulbs from which narrow leaves and delicate flowers emerge, in sunny colors, which can bloom in waves several times a year under ideal conditions.

The blooms are abundant and spectacular – each bulb can produce 1-2 flower stalks measuring 5-10 cm in length. Each stalk usually carries 2 yellow, pleasantly scented flowers with a long lifespan.

Fragrant flowers: Yes

Synonyms: Zygopetalum citrinum, Zygopetalum xantinum, Eulophia crinita, Eulophia stenochila, Maxillaria citrina, Maxillaria guttata, Maxillaria lawrence, Maxillaria xanthina, Promenaea citrina, Promenaea xanthina var. major

🌿 Botanical characteristics:

• Full name: Promenaea xanthina

• Family: Orchidaceae

• Plant type: epiphytic, perennial orchid

• Flowers: intense yellow, waxy, lightly scented, 3–5 cm in diameter

• Foliage: light green, lance-shaped

• Blooming: spring – autumn (with possibility of periodic reblooming)

☀️ Growing conditions:

• Light: strong indirect light (no direct sun)

• Temperature: prefers moderate temperatures: 16–24°C

• Humidity: medium to high; ideal for terrariums or closed display cases

• Watering: regular, allowing partial drying between waterings; prefers rainwater or distilled water

• Substrate: fine pine bark + sphagnum or mix for epiphytic orchids

• Fertilizing: weakly diluted, once every 2 weeks during the growing season

✔️ What makes it special:

• Yellow and waxy flowers, with a discreet scent, exceptionally rare among orchids

• Small size, ideal for collections or limited spaces

• Can bloom several times a year

Height including pot: approx. 15-20 cm

This variety naturally shows leaves with defects. Flower shades vary.