Jan 012011
 

Species of the month: Maxillaria picta

Maxillaria picta belongs to a large genus of orchids which are native to Central and South America. Many of these are well suited for growing in the South Florida area.

Of these, M. picta is one of the prettiest. This warn to cool growing species is native to Brazil and Argentina and blooms from winter to spring. The fragrant yellow flowers are marked with red and have white lips and a mature plant can make a spectacular display when it’s in bloom.

From experience with my plant, it likes bright light, moderate water and fertilizer with a bit of a dry rest and good air circulation. Plants bloom from January to March.

Look for it at the upcoming Ft. Lauderdale and Tamiami shows.

Jan 012011
 

Get Growing with Lou Lodyga… Prostechea boothiana

A Florida native, also found in the Caribbean and Mexico in dry scrub forest and tropical deciduous forests as a hot to warm growing miniature to small sized epiphyte. It is found from sea level to 150 meters in elevation, it is commonly called the dollar orchid for the shape of it pseudobulbs; it grows best on a mount in bright light and blooms in the summer.

Spikes arise from newly formed bulbs and tend to be larger than the plant. They can carry up to 5 long-lasting flowers. Like all Florida orchids, this one is illegal to collect in the wild. Plants are available from several nurseries.