Epidendrum radicans

[Bud]

Epidendrum radicans (endemic to Mexico all the way to Panama) possesses a low-lying, freely branching growth habit, producing roots along the length of the stem. Stems range from 4 inches to 2 feet in length, producing upright terminal 6- to 15-inch-tall spikes with up to 10 vivid, reddish-orange, 1-inch flowers that are open at any one time. The flowers open in succession over several months, with up to 40 flowers per inflorescence. It does well in full sun to partial shade. This species is tolerant of temperatures down to freezing. This grows readily in almost any setting, whether in a pot, mounted on a cork slab, or in raised flowerbeds outdoors, as climate permits. When fertilized regularly they respond immediately with denser flower spikes, greener, stronger leaves and more robust roots. Plants grown in lower light (such as inside in northern climates) need less nitrogen; high nitrogen fertilizer in low light will result in long, leggy, straggling growths. These orchids are generally forgiving of water frequency and quality. I make sure to water generously, letting water drain out of the bottom of the vessel, to prevent mineral buildup in the mix. I like to keep the roots moist year round, but, as for most of my orchids, I do not let the plant sit in water.

[nenella]

Nice, how long have you had it and what are your growing conditions for this one?

[Bud]

Thank You, nenella !
I have this plant for 2 years, but I pulled it off from a friends garden in CA already blooming sized...
Theres 4 stems and the basal keikis outgrew the mothers...I have three keikis appearing on the stems but I will have to pluck and repot it when its got at least 5 inches roots...
I put it outdoors in warmer months and put it with my vandas in the cold months...its is a 4" round plastic pot with some of my old Phal mix that instead of discarding; I cleaned it and microwaved the mix for 3 min let it cool overnight...then added a handful of ordinary potting soil ...
water it once a week and fertilizer twice a month
bright shaded sun outside my fire escape or on the south facing window

[silken]

That's very nice!

[Bud]

Thank You, silken !

[dounoharm]

great color! looks like a nice sized bloom too...good growing!

[Bud]

Thank You, dounoharm ! These are growing like weeds and pretty soon I need to gather the keikis and plant them...it is slowly becoming a tall jungle

[MAli]

Ok that's it ! I need to get something with a wicked orange coloration like this one. I can almost smell it from here. Is it fragrant ? Very nice !

[WhiteRabbit]

Fabulous!

[Allycatz]

Very nice Epi. radicans! My Epi. radicans is 100 cm (3.3 feet) tall so apparently the stems can exceed 2 feet! haha Your leaves appear much darker than mine though.