I got the #1 on my wish list!!!!!

[Gage]

This is Encyclia tampensis. I go it from Roy at H&R Orchids (Hawaii) at the Tamiami show. It's a very well-established clump of pseudobulbs, but still small enough to save space in my little tree. So you can have an idea of how small its growth habit is, this is a 4" basket. This orchid is native to the southern half or so of Florida. It blooms in the summer, peaking in June. I really like the typical Encyclia growth habit, the compact size, and the long branching inflorescences. Of course I will post more pics as soon as it blooms. Thanks for looking!

[camille1585]

It's always awesome to get the orchid at the top of the wishlist! But the only problem is that it means that there is a new #1 to buy!
Encyclia tampensis is also very high on my list, but only the alba form seems to be sold here, and I really want the normal version.

[Gage]

I know, it seems growers here also carry more of the alba form. So when I have seen the regular tampensis, it was either too small or too expensive or mounted in a way I didn't like, or all of the above. That said, when I saw this one for $25 I figured I would grab it.

[camille1585]

When I was at Cornell for 6 months back in 2010, one of the grad students there was an orchid freak that used university greenhouse space to house his collection. He had dozens of gorgeous E. tampensis, and offered to give me some (along with lots of other great orchids). I was sorely, sorely tempted, but the idea of smuggling plants back to the EU left me beyond freaked out!

[Gage]

Originally Posted by camille1585

When I was at Cornell for 6 months back in 2010, one of the grad students there was an orchid freak that used university greenhouse space to house his collection. He had dozens of gorgeous E. tampensis, and offered to give me some (along with lots of other great orchids). I was sorely, sorely tempted, but the idea of smuggling plants back to the EU left me beyond freaked out!

That's too bad.

[Discus]

I once met an orchid enthusiast who kept having orchids thrust at him when he was overseas. He eventually taped them to his body before coming home. Not sure quite how that would pass through the modern microwave body scanners...!

[tucker85]

That looks like a good healthy specimen. You shouldn't have any trouble growing that since it's native to this area.

[GardenTheater]

Beautiful plant! Enjoy!

[Otis226]

I know just how you feel. First, getting a plant from the top of your list, and second, finding a true sp. tampensis. I've also accomplished that recently. Mine is quite a bit smaller than your lovely specimen, but very healthy and has its first bloom on it now, just 2 yrs. out of the flask! I will be mounting it as soon as blooming is over. It is surprising that we have to usually search outside of FL to find any tampesis but the hybrids or alba forms. I got mine from a friend in LA.
Best,
Tony

[Leafmite]

I just ordered my #1! It isn't an orchid but Theobroma cocoa! I am so excited! Good luck with your #1. In your climate, it will really thrive. I've seen pictures, they really are a worthy addition. Enjoy!