This is weird right?

[Clawhammer]

This is my third fall blooming Fdk After Dark 'Black Pearl'. I didn't expect much as I only got two new p-bulbs as it was shaded a bit by a couple tall cycnoches (although they are both very large p-bulbs).

Certainly didn't expect this, two spikes off of old p-bulbs! The bulb on the left might even be 2 years old. I have a lot of plants in this alliance and have not seen this before. Anyone else experience this?

[IMG]Untitled by Eric, on Flickr[/IMG]

Another oddity with this plant... Here is spike 3 and 4 from new p-bulbs, nice and black. Spikes 1 and 2 were burgundy (don't have a pic). I think this one is trying to get my attention haha

[IMG]Untitled by Eric, on Flickr[/IMG]

[Dorchid]

That’s a beauty for sure! Crazy on the different bloom colors…I would have guessed a change in conditions but doubt that’s the case considering your setup. My Fdk. Frank Smith has 2 nice spikes coming off of last years growth. Was super surprised. One even has roots as if it were a new growth. Considering these are complex hybrids, iinm, they could just be all sorts of confused.

[Clawhammer]

Originally Posted by Dorchid

That’s a beauty for sure! Crazy on the different bloom colors…I would have guessed a change in conditions but doubt that’s the case considering your setup. My Fdk. Frank Smith has 2 nice spikes coming off of last years growth. Was super surprised. One even has roots as if it were a new growth. Considering these are complex hybrids, iinm, they could just be all sorts of confused.

Good to know my plant isn't coming to life with plans to murder me, or if it is, I won't be the only victim.

[Dorchid]

LOL

[smweaver]

Weird or not, it's a fantastic-looking plant. And, judging by your descriptions, it sounds like it might be turning into something rather unique, which is also pretty cool. I do like the black flowers too.