Prosthechea (Encyclia) radiata 4in

In spike! (7/9/24) LARGE

Prosthechea radiata (Encyclia radiata) has long-lasting resupinate (upside-down) flowers with a bubblegum/root beer fragrance. Native to Mexico, this species grows up in trees and prefers very good drainage with quick wet to dry cycles. Ideal for mounting or basket growing, but will do well in a slatted pot with chunky bark and lava rocks. 

PROSTHECHEA RADIATA CARE:

Potting mix: Coarse bark and lava rocks, mounted, or in a Vanda box/aerated pot. Repot as infrequently as possible. These do not like to be moved.

Light: Bright indirect - partial direct light. Place within 3 feet of a window or plant light. Likes a lot of light. Protect leaves from direct sun exposure that exceeds 6 hours.

Water: Water in hot months when media is fully dry. Be careful not to overwater if grown potted. Similar watering to Cattleya.

Temp: Intermediate-warm (55F min night, 90F max day).

Humidity: 30-60%, tolerant of low humidity.

Fertilizing: Heavy feeding Spring-Summer. 1/2-1/4 strength urea-free fertilizer, every other watering as new roots and leaves emerge. Decrease or stop in winter as growth slows. Flush the pot with clean tap water once monthly to remove mineral build up.

Photo credit: By Elena Gaillard from New York, USA - Anacheilium radiatum, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11201158