Epidendrum porpax - miniature

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

About this plant

Epidendrum porpax is a miniature botanical species found in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil, in humid montane forests and cloud forests, at altitudes ranging from 400 to 1,800 meters. It is a very small epiphyte with growth adapted to warm to cool conditions, forming dense mats. It has simple, cane-like stems that are laterally compressed and slightly trailing, bearing between 4 and 13 leaves arranged along the stem in two rows.

In its natural habitat, it blooms from late spring through winter on a terminal, sessile, single-flowered inflorescence that emerges through a semi-elliptical, ovate-lanceolate, rounded, and slightly oblique bract at the tip. The flowers are fragrant, resupinate, and fleshy.

Flower size: approx. 1.5 cm

Fragrant flowers: Yes

Care for it like Gomesa Radicans. See the care guide on the Blog.

Quick care guide

• Light: plenty of light; gentle morning sun or bright filtered light.
• Watering: water when the surface of the substrate begins to dry; do not let water stagnate.
• Temperature: it can stay outdoors in summer after acclimatization, but protect it from prolonged cold and frost.
• Substrate and stems: airy mix with good drainage; do not cut the aerial roots or green stems.

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