Kir. Stephanie Takasaki 'Paradise' (Slc. Selsal's Supernova x Epi. stamfordianum)

[SillyFilly]

I won this in my Orchid society raffle and do not know the proper care. Spoke with one of the "experts" and he had one that didn't bloom for 6 years--gave it to a friend and it bloomed in 6 months. So what am I facing here? thx

[estación seca]

Welcome to the Orchid Board!

You don't say where you live, nor describe your growing conditions. Epi stanmfordianum crosses normally grow vigorously and bloom early.

[SillyFilly]

I am in central, inland Florida, and have a screened pool area and sun porch. My other orchards are thriving.

Does this new orchid request the same care as my Phals,
or what should I do that is the optimum? What about potting medium?

Thx

[estación seca]

It's in the Cattleya alliance, and you can grow it like other Cattleya alliance plants - Cattleya, Laelia, Brassavola, Epidendrum, and hybrids between them.

It will need much more light than a Phal; probably not full Florida sun during the hottest part of the day. Cattleya alliance plants tend to develop a little reddish or purplish spotting or blushing when in high light; this is good. Otherwise they should be light yellowish green. If they are dark green they are probably not getting enough light to bloom well.

Most people pot Cattleya alliance plants in large bark chunks, LECA clay balls, or mount them on branches. Good air circulation at the roots is important.

Water it well, then let it get just dry between waterings. If it stays too wet roots will rot.

If you have an orchid society near you, they will be able to give you information tailored to your area.