Peristeria elata mystery

[Sara Alms]

Hi All. Please give insight to what this is. My Peristeria elata appears to be growing a spike from the top and center of the new bulb. This is not what I have seen in any images of flower spikes emerging. I have a fat new growth spike starting at the base of the bulb which is where the spike should start. Super confused. Thank you. Sara Alms

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board!

It does look like a spike. Be happy for it. Congratulations!

[Sara Alms]

Thank you, I am excited. I have purchased another Peristeria elata, same size. Arrived yesterday with brown discoloration on the bottom part of the bulb. Softer when pushed as well. The seller did not seemed concerned, but to me it looks like rot. The other bulbs look good and there are some live roots, some dead. It really needs transplanting, but I cannot return it if I mess with it. Will this brown area continue to spread (die) or will it stabilize with proper care? Maybe this thread is in the wrong forum, I am new to posting here. Thanks for any response. Sara

[estación seca]

The bases do turn brown but it shouldn't be soft.

[Waterdog111]

Welcome.

[Sara Alms]

Thank you! It is not mushy soft and my mind may perceive it softer than it is because of the visual/tactile connection. (looks softer so it must feel softer). There is a lot of mixed information out there about the dormancy period of this plant. Most information online from hobbyists say to let it go almost completely without watering during winter months. The growers and sellers say to never let it dry out. I have done both now and think keeping it moist all winter may be better for the plant, but maybe the drier treatment may promote flower spiking better? Awesome plant.

[Waterdog111]

I love the Huge pseudobulbs, they almost make me think of the other types of flowers that have the large type of bulbs that you have to bury, and then to sprout.

[estación seca]

Do some searching here for threads on this plant. Flowering-sized plants must be kept dry, and brightly lit, all winter to flower. Younger plants can be watered all year so they reach flowering size faster.