Eulophia guineensis - An African Beauty

[euplusia]

This terrestrial species is widespread in central African grasslands and bushlands, where climatic conditions are characterized by a harsh contrast of the dry and the rainy season. Remember the periodical floods of river Nile.
For me it is one of the easiest orchids to grow and one of the most beautiful African orchids. Easy to be propagated by divisions.
They store water over the dry season not only in their bulbs but also in their fleshy roots. I repotted this march in a sandy soil with stones and little humus.
I start watering when flower stems are 10 cm high. Regular watering and fertilizing over the growing season goes with reduced doses until end of december. In february / march I move them to a dry darker place with 18 - 20 degrees Celcius for two month. I end dormancy at the end of march and put them back into my greenhouse. Repotting and dividing is done every other year.
55 buds and flowers.

[samarak]

Lovely. I like all Eulophia and Oeceoclades species but have to admit that the flowers of many are a little drab (muted yellows, browns, off white, etc.) compared to the Cattleyas and Angraecums others in my society prefer. No one could argue with this one! Thanks for including some info on your culture. I use a rather sandy mix with very little organic matter too.

[WhiteRabbit]

Wow! That's fabulous!