Stanhopea Assidensis

[Orchid killer]

Originally Posted by pmrorchideas

Yes, the pictures of the plant shown show a flower that is much lighter than many clones of this hybrid, Stanhopea Assidensis (S. tigrina X S. wardii); that should raise no doubt in anybody's mind about whether-or-not this is a true XAssidensis! Variations in hybrids are normally expected. I have several clones of X Assidensis, and they vary from nearly this light to rather dark, but not nearly as dark as some, which are even more dark than many of the S. tigrina species, which is of itself extremely variable in coloration. From the pictures shown, which are minimal for decent identification, the form appears to be consistent with that of X Assidensis, and the long inflorescence stem also consistent with this hybrid. It is a pretty flower, in my estimation, and I see no reason from these pictures to doubt that it is the X, Assidensis. Be happy with having a nicely grown and blooming plant. By-the-way, this hybrid could produce inflorescences of 2 to 6 flowers, perhaps more, on a large and healthy plant. Keep it pretty moist and in a slightly shady humid environment. Don't be afraid to feed it if you can periodically flush the media with water that has low dissolved solids. The plants can get huge, with leaves from 30 cm to 45 cm length. Aroma of my plants' flowers tends to be much like S. tigrina; powerful in daytime, especially the morning, not offensive to us, as some species' flowers are, but can't vouch for reaction of other people to such powerful aromas.
Paul

---------- Post added at 11:37 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:32 AM ----------

Saw post of S. Assidensis by Gwallogwyn; I grow that clone, plus "Marge's Pride," and a couple other clones. I have seen a clone so dark that it was darker than most dark tigrina species, so this is indeed a quite variable hybrid.

Many thanks for your comments, most valuable. My Assidensis is currently in full growth, even though it is winter in the southern hemisphere. So I am hoping to a full flush of blooms during the rainy season, which is from Nov through to April here in Africa. Will keep you posted.