Origin
Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle is a species of orchid that belongs to the genus Epidendrum. It is native to Jamaica, a Caribbean island country that is part of the Greater Antilles.
Common Names
Epidendrum belvederense is commonly known as the Belvedere Epidendrum due to its occurrence in Belvedere, a small village located in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.
Uses
Epidendrum belvederense is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful, showy flowers. It is popular among orchid enthusiasts and collectors as it is relatively easy to grow. Its flowers are long-lasting, and it can bloom multiple times throughout the year.
General Appearance
Epidendrum belvederense is a small to medium-sized orchid that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has a sympodial growth habit, forming clusters of pseudobulbs that are cylindrical to slightly fusiform in shape. The leaves are leathery, linear to lanceolate and up to 30 cm long. The inflorescence can grow up to 60 cm long, producing up to several dozen flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter. The flowers are showy and have a waxy texture, with sepals and petals that are yellow-green with brown stripes. The lip is white with purple spots and splotches.
Light Requirements
Epidendrum belvederense requires bright indirect light to grow properly. This species can thrive in conditions with up to 50% shade, but too much shade can cause a lack of growth and blooming. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, so it must be filtered through a sheer curtain or shade cloth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Epidendrum belvederense is between 18°C to 27°C during the daytime and 13°C to 18°C at night. Higher temperatures can cause the plant to stop growing and increase its susceptibility to diseases. Lower temperatures can cause the roots to rot, leading to the plant's death.
Soil Requirements
Epidendrum belvederense should be grown in a well-draining, coarse potting mix that allows for air circulation around the roots. Perlite, bark, and charcoal can be used as the primary components of the soil mix. The plant must be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to almost dry out before re-watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, and underwatering can lead to dehydration and stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods
Epidendrum belvederense is a species of orchid that is native to Jamaica and has adapted to its tropical climate. As such, it prefers warm temperatures, high humidity, and bright but indirect sunlight. It can be grown outdoors if the conditions are favorable, or indoors under the right conditions. For indoor cultivation, choose a location that receives plenty of light but is shaded directly from the sun. A well-draining potting mix with adequate aeration is essential, as moist conditions can lead to rot. The use of sphagnum moss or bark mixtures is recommended.Watering Needs
Orchids in general, including Epidendrum belvederense, do not require frequent watering. Instead, they prefer a consistent level of moisture. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common cause of death in orchids. Water the plant once a week, or when the potting medium is almost dry. Water thoroughly but let the excess drain out of the pot before returning it to its location.Fertilization
Epidendrum belvederense can benefit from regular fertilization, especially during its active growth phase. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or 30-10-10 every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period or when the plant shows signs of stress.Pruning
Although Epidendrum belvederense is a low-maintenance plant, periodic pruning can help to keep it healthy. Remove any yellow or decaying leaves as soon as they appear, as they can attract pests or disease. Trimming back the flower spikes can encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing new growth and roots. Cut back the spike once the flowers have faded, leaving a small portion near the base of the stem.Propagation of Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle
Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle is a beautiful orchid plant native to Jamaica. It can be propagated using several methods. The following are some of the most common propagation methods:
Propagation by division
Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle can be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own growing point called the pseudobulb. This method can be used to increase the number of plants or to rejuvenate old and overcrowded plants. After division, each section should be repotted in a suitable mix of orchid compost and hung up to dry for a couple of days before watering.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is another method of propagating Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle. This method requires patience and attention to detail. When the orchid produces a seed pod, it should be allowed to mature before harvesting. The seeds are tiny and dust-like; they should be sown thinly without burying deep. The soil needs to be moist and kept in a shaded area until germination.
Propagation through keiki
Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle can also be propagated through keiki production. Keikis are baby plants that grow on the nodes of the flower spikes. A keiki can be removed from the parent plant and potted when it has two or three leaves. It is essential to keep the keiki moist until it establishes; it can take up to two years to reach maturity.
Propagation through backbulb cuttings
Propagation through backbulb cuttings can be used for old and overgrown plants. The backbulbs can be removed from the parent plant and used to propagate new orchids. Backbulbs should be repotted immediately into a well-draining orchid mix and left to dry before watering. Over the next couple of seasons, they should produce new growths that will develop into new plants.
Propagation of Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle can be challenging, but with the right care and attention, it can be very rewarding. Using these methods will help ensure successful propagation and the growth of beautiful, healthy plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Epidendrum Belvederense Fawcett & Rendle
Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle is a beautiful, flowering orchid plant that requires good care to prevent diseases and pests infestation. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are the most common diseases that can affect Epidendrum belvederense. It can cause black or brown spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers, and make the plant look unhealthy. To manage fungal infections, remove infected parts of the plant and avoid overwatering. You can also use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Virus Infections
Virus infections can cause yellowing and distorted growth of leaves and flowers. Unfortunately, there is no cure for virus-infected plants, and they have to be removed immediately to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant and cause leaves to have a stippling appearance. To manage spider mites, spray the plant regularly with water to remove them or use an insecticide specifically designed to target mites.
Thrips
Thrips are small insects that can cause distorted or deformed flowers and leaves. To manage thrips, use insecticides that target thrips and avoid over-fertilizing.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are white, fuzzy insects that can infest the whole plant and hide under leaves and in crevices. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to suffocate them, or wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
By managing diseases and pests, you can ensure a healthy and flourishing Epidendrum belvederense Fawcett & Rendle plant.
