Epidendrum paniculatum
Epidendrum paniculatum is an epiphytic orchid which share the typical distinguishing feature of the
Epidendrum genus: the fusion in the flower between the column and the labellum, to form a small tube where nectar is produced. It has also been known and called as
Epidendrum floribundum.
It is endemic of a wide area which extends from Guatemala south to Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil. It grows in the humid tropical forests up to 2100 meters.
Pseudobulbs get thinner towards the top while leaves are dark-greenish. It blooms from May until the end of the summer. Blooms are in cluster, lanceolate and corn-shaped, from which the latin "paniculatum" comes from. Each spike can have a few to many fragrant, variable in color, flowers opening in succession over a long period of time. We simply nicknamed it "Epi".
Bought with two spikes and full of small flowers after the course in June 2012 at the
"Orchideria" by Pozzi in Morosolo.
Temperature:
intermediate-warm, meaning 20 degC minimum at night during winter.
Light:
medium-high, meaning a bright light is recommended, but no direct sunlight. Ideal light levels are about 2000-3000 foot-candles
Humidity:
on the high side, ideal range is 70-80% but will handle less
Rest:
no
Repot:
every 2-3 years, when the roots are outgrowing the pot and the soil is going to break down
Scent:
yes
30 June 2013
Arghhhhhhh! I was watering "Epi" and the top half of the plant left the pot and remained in my hands! The medium in the bottom part of the pot was completely soaked and many roots were rotten. We were so surprised as the plant gave no sign of suffering. We decided to clean the rooting system, keep only the turgid and good roots, soak them in the fungicide and repot. Fingers crossed. In the process some small pseudobulbs detached because they had no good roots for sustainment. We put them in cotton and bag as in the picture. Once again fingers crossed for new roots...
16 June 2013
Our "Epi" is now outdoor together with all intermediate-temperature orchids. It is set on the intermediate tray, second row. It is still in a bright spot because on the front row there are only the smaller
Epidendrum porpax and
Epidendrum viridibrunneum.
15 May 2013
More pseudobulbs are developing :) !
02 August 2012
We put "Epi" in a shaded spot indoor but after more than one month, many little flowers are starting to perish :( !
24 June 2012
A new orchid species with two spikes and full of very fragrant flowers!