Origin and Common Names
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is a species of orchid native to Central and South America, specifically the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. It is commonly known as the "green-flowered epidendrum", "green-flowered star orchid", or "Ecuadorian star orchid".
General Appearance
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is an epiphytic orchid that can grow up to 1 meter in length. It has long, slender stems that are green or yellowish-green in color, with papery sheaths at each node. The leaves are strap-shaped and fleshy, measuring up to 15 cm long and 2 cm wide. The inflorescence is a raceme, bearing 10 to 20 flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are typically green, but can also be yellow, white, or pink, with a lip that is often marked with purple or red.
Uses
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is a popular ornamental plant, grown for its attractive flowers and foliage. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and is a relatively easy plant to care for. In some parts of South America, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, indigestion, and respiratory problems. It is also sometimes used as a source of food for a variety of insects and animals.
Light Requirements
Epidendrum concretum is a plant that prefers moderate to bright light. It can grow under both direct and indirect sunlight but needs protection from intense midday sun rays. Inadequate light can cause stunted growth, elongated leaves, and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Epidendrum concretum is between 18°C and 30°C. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 10°C to 35°C. However, the growth rate slows down at higher or lower temperatures, and susceptibility to diseases and insect attack increases.
Soil Requirements
Epidendrum concretum prefers well-drained substrates that allow water and air to circulate freely around the roots. A mixture of bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite is ideal for this plant. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant does not tolerate heavy soils that retain too much moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is an epiphytic plant that thrives in a warm and humid environment. It can be cultivated either in a pot or a basket using bark or sphagnum moss as a growing medium. It requires bright but indirect light, preferably under shade cloth or filtered sunlight. It's best to avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Watering Needs
Watering frequency depends on the climate, potting medium and the size of the plant. As a general rule, it is best to let the potting medium to dry out partially before watering again. In cooler weather, when growth slows down, the watering frequency should be decreased. It's always best to water in the morning so that the plant can dry off before the night comes.
Fertilization
Regular fertilizing is crucial for the growth of Epidendrum concretum Jacq. During the growing season, it's recommended to use high nitrogen fertilizer every two weeks or a balanced fertilizer once a month. During the dormant period, reduce the amount of fertilizer or stop the application altogether. Fertilizers should always be used at half-strength to prevent damaging the roots.
Pruning
Pruning should be done after the flowering period, preferably during the new growth stage. Cut off the spent flower spikes using clean scissors or pruning shears. If the plant shows sign of overgrowth, cut off the older pseudobulbs to promote new growth. Be careful not to damage the newer growths or the central growing point.
Propagation of Epidendrum concretum Jacq.
Epidendrum concretum Jacq., commonly known as the Green Epidendrum, is a popular orchid species appreciated for its beautiful and long-lasting flowers. Propagating this plant can be done in various ways, including:
Division
Division is the easiest and quickest way to propagate Epidendrum concretum Jacq. with a mature plant. During the repotting process, locate sections of the plant with three or four pseudobulbs and cut them away from the parent plant. Ensure each division has healthy roots and leaves to increase its chance of survival.
Cane cuttings
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. can also be multiplied through cane cuttings. To do this successfully, use a clean and sharp knife to cut a healthy cane at least 6 inches in length. Then dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a pot filled with a suitable orchid mix, keeping it moist and warm until new roots and foliage start to emerge.
Keiki
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. produces keikis, which are small plantlets that grow on the parent plant's stem. To propagate this plant using keikis, choose a healthy keiki with leaves and roots, and pot it up in a separate container, ensuring that the roots are thoroughly covered with an orchid mix. Provide warmth and bright light, and keep the potting mix moist until the keiki becomes well-established.
Propagation of Epidendrum concretum Jacq. can be challenging, but by following this guide, you can successfully multiply and enjoy more of this beautiful orchid species.
Disease Management
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is susceptible to a few fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The most common diseases affecting this plant include black rot, leaf spot, and stem rot. These diseases are usually caused by overwatering, poor air circulation, and high humidity levels.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to provide good air circulation and avoid overcrowding the plants. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering or underwatering. Remove any infected or dead plant parts and dispose of them far from the healthy plants. Use a fungicide or bactericide as per the instructions on the label to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Epidendrum concretum Jacq. is typically less vulnerable to pest infestations. However, some common pests that can affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests usually feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves.
To manage pest infestations, it is advisable to inspect the plant regularly and identify any bugs that may have infested the plant. Treat with insecticides or miticides as per instructions on the label. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the plants and maintain good air circulation around the plant to reduce the chances of pest build-up.
