Peristeria elata 4in

A rarely sold Panamanian orchid (the national flower of Panama). Grows as a lithophyte and as a terrestrial orchid in loamy soil. The flowers are huge, round, and have a sweet dove shape in the center. This has gained it the nickname of the "Dove orchid". Blooms are plentiful on tall spikes and smell sweetly spiced. An uncommon one for the collection that looks just as attractive out of bloom. 

A near blooming size plant. Photos are representative of the blooms. 

PERISTERIA CARE:

Potting mix: Fine bark or aerated soil mix. Apply a small amount of Dolomite Lime once repotted to help raise pH (prefers slightly alkaline conditions). Repot in Spring once root bound. 

Light: Medium light. Protect leaves from direct sun exposure, needs mostly shade. 

Water: Water frequently in hot months when media is near dry. Do not allow to stay dry for long periods or leaves will suffer. 

Temp: Warm-hot (65F min night, 90F max day). Warmth is necessary for blooming. 

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

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

Originally published in The Florida Orchidist (image)