ultramafic soils and leaf mold

[jimjim]

hey guys!! just two quick questions...I just found out that one of my ciliolare plants grew in ultramafic soil, how do you recreate this soil or what should i add in my potting mix to provide it its essential nutrients? and has anyone used leaf mold in your potting mixes? thanks

[tmaxwell]

Ultramafic refers to a high concentration on iron and magnesium minerals. But, this term applies to igneous rocks, so as far as soil goes, i'm not so sure. Some volcanic soils possess this property, as well as young soils derived from basalts. This would make sense for a philippine native like Paph. ciliolare. Find out where they grow wild and get some soil!

[breeindy]

volcanic rock?