Orchid of the day: Prosthechea vitellina, formerly Encyclia vitellina

Prosthechea vitellina (formerly Encyclia vitellina)

I posted about this orchid last year, February 12, 2017. It is now named Prosthechea (previously Encyclia) vitellina. This orchid hails from Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala, where it grows as an epiphyte at high elevations.  High elevations means cold to cool conditions, something most orchid growers cannot offer unless they have an air-conditioned greenhouse.  Unlike most cold growers, Psh vitellina is fortunately rather forgiving when it comes to temperature and can adapt to somewhat warmer than ideal conditions.  What Arne has seen, however, is that warmer temperatures seem to be reflected in the pseudobulbs which grow into an oblong rather than round shape when the temperature is warmer than ideal.  The quality or shape of the flowers is not affected by somewhat elevated growing temperature.

Based on our own experience, Psh vitellina does not need any dry winter rest as suggested in most cultural notes.  Arne has his Psh vitellina in a rather small clay pot with bark/sphagnum mix. From the time growth starts in spring until the flower stems begin to appear in August, Arne gives the orchid water regularly.  Watering is marginally reduced during the rest of the year, which is essentially one single blooming season. 

A) By December 6, 2017, two flower stems had developed with four flowers on one.

B) The flower stem to the left, appeared larger and there are approximately eight flower buds.

C) The flower buds up close.

D) By January 12, 2018, we can see at least fifteen flowers on the left flower stem and four on the right stem. A total of about nineteen flowers.

E) Beautifully intense colour of each bloom.

F) Another pretty picture.

G) Intense bright orange beauty, to conclude today's post.

As of today, we have nineteen flowers but the numbers may increase. It is difficult to guess until all the flowers are opened! I hope this post has been a fun read.

Until my next post, do have a good week everyone.