Den alexandrae - Light Requirements

[kinknstein]

Would anyone know the light requirements for Den alexandrae? In footcandles if possible.

[camille1585]

I don't have this one, but according the Orchidwiz, Den alexandrae needs 2000 to 3000fc, with slightly more light during the winter months.
At Kew gardens in the UK it is kept in a greenhouse that is only slightly shaded.

It looks like it's a beautiful orchid, the blooms are so unusual looking! I want it!

[kinknstein]

I have been wanting one for quite sometime now. They are quite unusual, I tend to gravitate towards the strange ones! Does OrchidWiz advise less water in winter as well? I assume so, but maybe I should double check.

[camille1585]

Originally Posted by kinknstein

I have been wanting one for quite sometime now. They are quite unusual, I tend to gravitate towards the strange ones! Does OrchidWiz advise less water in winter as well? I assume so, but maybe I should double check.

It says to reduce watering "somewhat", especially for plants grown in dark short day conditions. I don't think it's a huge reduction since Orchidwiz also says that in the wild the conditions don't vary much throughout the year, other than a slight decrease of rainfall in the winter.

[kinknstein]

Well its a good thing I checked. Thanks very much Camille for your quick responses!

[camille1585]

No problem! Now I have a new orchid on my wishlist....

[Brooke]

You have good taste Nick - alexanderae is one of my favorites. Blooming now -



Camille gave great instructions and that is exactly how I grow mine probably because I used OrchidWiz for the culture information :>)

It blooms from old and new canes for a l-o-n-g time.

Brooke

[kinknstein]

Thanks Brooke! How long have the flowers lasted from your experience?

[Brooke]

Months and months :>)

Brooke

[LauraN]

Awesome photo Brooke!