Bifrenaria charlesworthii

[Frdemetr]

Bifr charlesworthii belongs to the group of small flowers Bifrenaria (formerly called Stenocoryne or Adipe). This plant is better known as Bifr. villosula, due its 'hairy' lip. No noticeable scent

[Mikeg]

I love this!!!! Is it a hard one to grow?

[Frdemetr]

Hi Mikeg!

This Bifr is not difficult to grow (unlike its "sister" Bifrenaria racemosa), it prefers good quality substrate (Chilean sphagnum mixed with small pieces of Styrofoam and carcoal, or tree fern fiber) and well-drained clay pots. Does not tolerate excess or lack of moisture, and likes lots of light (but not direct sun). With this care it goes very well with fertilization similar to other orchid (Cattleya), reaching bloom twice a year (spring and summer)

[RosieC]

Cool, not come accross these before... but I can see you've posted a couple more so I'm about to take a look at those as well

[Mikeg]

So it's a little bit more picky than a Cattleya?

[Frdemetr]

Hi Mikeg!

Yep - being a small plant, it will not tolerate a prolonged dryness, and it can rot if the moisture is excessive. But aside from that, you can care more or less as a Cattleya (light, temperature, fertilization). These small Bifrenarias doesn't need annual rest.

[Mikeg]

That's awesome!! Thanks! If you don't mind me asking where did obtain one of these guys?

[Frdemetr]

Mikeg,

To export to the US, I recommend the "Alvim Seidel - Orquidário Catarinense" (Alvim Seidel :: Orquidário Catarinense LTDA), they have an extensive list of Brazilian natural plants, which can be sent for you (by request - the list is no longer online). Look for Bifrenaria villosula or Stenocoryne villosula, and Bifrenaria / Stenocoryne charlesworthii

[Mikeg]

So it would have to be imported?

[Frdemetr]

... I guess only "Andy's Orchids" (Andy's Orchids - Orchid Species - Orchids - Species Specialist - Orchids on a stick) could have this plant in US