Brassia care and the Brassia Edvah Loo

If you end up following this blog for a while you'll quickly notice I'm a big fan of the Brassia, or spider orchid. Brassias epitomize what I enjoy about growing orchids: long, graceful and scented flowers on lengthy and full inflorescences. But to get this, you must know a few cultural requirements.

As an Oncidiinae subtribe orchid, the Brassia looks a look like other orchids when not in bloom. It has the egg/oval psuedobulbs and long strappy leaves of its Oncidium brethren; however, they require much brighter light and more water. I keep extra sphagnum, about 40 percent, in the potting mix for any Brassia, and water when it is almost dry to the touch. To prevent rhizome or root rot with these watering habits, you'll need to provide good air flow- such as a fan. Also put these in an area where they will get light--without the extra light, you won't get blooms the following season. You are hitting the light requirements when the leaves are a lighter lime green.

An example of this orchid is my Brassia Edvah Loo, a primary hybrid between the species Brassia arcuigera and Brassia gireoudiana. It is a frangrant orchid, and smells of honeysuckle. This is one of my largest orchids, with 10-12 large pseudobulbs and more in development. I have it in a fairly exposed spot, and the leaves have developed a lighter green/slight yellow coloring. I might post another pic when all of the flowers open.

Coffee enjoyed during this post: House Blend, Starbucks Coffee Company (Rating 2/5)