Zygopetalum (Orchids)

Becoming very popular in cultivation, Zygopetalum is a genus of about 16 species of terrestrial or epiphytic orchids found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru. Easy to grow in the home, as long as you follow an appropriate care routine, these cool to moderate growing orchids make ravishing houseplants.

Zygopetalum orchids have a robust growth habit with deciduous, ovoid-conical pseudobulbs bearing 2 or 3 glossy, strap-like, plicate leaves. The foliage can grow to be nearly 2 ft. tall (60 cm) and the inflorescence, which develops from the base of the pseudobulb, will usually grow even taller than the leaves. They have a large root system and need a fairly large pot.

Long-lasting, slender-petalled, wax-like flowers are borne on tall spikes that originate at the base of the new pseudobulbs. They are usually extremely fragrant and bloom in shades of green, purple, burgundy, and raspberry with several patterns.

Growing Zygopetalum Orchids

Light
These orchids are easily grown in a well-drained but humus-rich compost in fairly bright light to light shade, but not direct sun. If the leaves become dark green, your orchid is probably not getting enough light. If the leaves become yellow, your orchid might have been exposed to too much sunlight. Provide good air circulation year-round.

Temperatures
These orchids prefer daytime temperatures between 70-80°F (21-26°C), and night temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C).

Water
Keep your orchid evenly moist, never allowing the plant to completely dry out, but avoid soggy conditions. These orchids are quite intolerant of poorly drained or soggy potting mixes. While the orchid is in active growth (warmer months), water more frequently (approximately once a week), and less frequently in the cooler months when the orchid is not in active growth.

Humidity
Maintain adequate humidity (40-60%) for most of the year by standing your container in a tray of damp pebbles.

Fertilization
Provide regular fertilization. Fertilize every other watering with a half-strength solution when the orchid is in active growth. When not in active growth, fertilize once a month. It is important to flush (once a month) with clear water to remove excess fertilizer, which can burn roots.

Potting
Repot in spring, once every year or two, or once the potting medium no longer drains properly or if the orchid is beginning to outgrow the pot. Use a mixture of bark, coconut chips, and perlite.

Propagation
Can be divided as long as you have at least 3 pseudobulbs per division.

Pests and diseases
These orchids are generally disease free. Keep an eye out for aphids, glasshouse red spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot (excess moisture).