Encyclia tampensis v. alba x sib 4in

Encyclia tampensis is a Florida native orchid that smells like honey and green applies. This is the green and white alba form. Small narrow-petaled flowers that emerge from the top of the plant. Requires rapid wet/dry cycles and is not tolerant of media decomposition. These do really well mounted. Blooms in late Spring. 

ENCYCLIA CARE:

Potting mix: Coarse bark and lava rocks or mounted with moss. Wooden baskets are also good. Repot once every couple years as the substrate breaks down if grown in a pot. These are sensitive to being 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: 50-80%, tolerant of moderate 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: 305 Greenery