Encydias are widely distributed throughout tropical America, both north and south, and the islands of the West Indies. They are bulbous orchids producing either long and slender or short and fat pseudobulbs, with terminal foliage consisting of two, three or even four leaves. Flower spikes are always produced from the top of the pseudobulb, generally from the previous seasons growth. The blooms are held on upright spikes and come in a fascinating range of colours. The plants are usually epiphytes and, depending on the species, can be small, scrubby bushes or large specimen plants found only on large trees. They can also be found growing on the ground or on rocky outcrops where the environment offers suitable conditions.
This is a large genus which, over the years, has been divided and reclassified several times, originally being part of the genus Epidendrum. Recently it has had more taxonomic changes, with many of the species being placed in the genus Prosthechea. However, they are still widely known as encyclias. They have been bred for many years and for the purpose of hybridization they are recorded as epidendrums when making crosses between genera. Hybrids within the genus itself are few and far between, but when crossed with other related plants, such as the cattleyas, they produce some wonderfully colourful hybrids and small, compact plants.
One of the best known of the encyclias is E. cochleata, which was one of the earliest orchids introduced into cultivation in the West, as long ago as 1763. This attractive plant has a relatively large pseudobulb and in cultivation it can remain in flower throughout the year. The shape of its lip has earned it the name of cockleshell orchid, but it is also known as the octopus orchid because of its unusual dangling tentacles. This is a slow-growing orchid, but in spite of that, it is reasonably adaptable to a variety of conditions. Most of the species require generally cool conditions, but some will flourish just as well in the intermediate or hot house.
As encyclias are widely distributed, they are equally diverse in their cultural requirements. The cool varieties do not have strict growing and resting seasons as do some other orchids. The best rule is to follow the plants pattern of growth, and if it decides to grow throughout the winter, then it should be watered, even if the one beside it prefers to rest with less water until the new roots and growth commence.
For more informations about gardening tips visit Readers Digest.ca .
Similar Posts:
- How to Grow Calanthe Orchids
- How to Grow Lycaste and Anguloa Orchids
- How to Grow Lycaste and Anguloa Orchids
- 4 Plants Saved from Extinction by the Endangered Species Act
- When Do You Need New Siding?
no comment untill now