Coelia macrostachya

[smweaver]

This one is something of a coarse-growing species, with large growths and thin grassy leaves growing in every direction. Coelia macrostachya tends to produce multiple growths from previous years' pseudobulbs, and it tolerates a wide temperature range (although, in my experience, it seems to prefer intermediate-to-cool temperatures, especially during the winter flowering season) Small fragrant blooms are produced on the upper third of tall-growing spikes (well, if the snails don't discover them!). Seven spikes forming this year. Should be a decent show starting around the first of the new year. I'll post more pictures when the flowers open.

Steve

Coelia macrostachya | Flickr - Photo Sharing!
Coelia macrostachya | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[Paul]

Looks like an impressive display in the works.

[WhiteRabbit]

Nice! Can't wait to see bloom pix

[Tindomul]

That is going to look awesome, I cannot wait!!!
How much light does it take? Do you know how tall the spikes will be?? Does it ever go dormant?? Thanks.

[smweaver]

Originally Posted by Tindomul

That is going to look awesome, I cannot wait!!!
How much light does it take? Do you know how tall the spikes will be?? Does it ever go dormant?? Thanks.

It goes through distinct growth and flowering cycles; however, I wouldn't say that it goes dormant (like, say, the deciduous Mexican lycastes do). It takes lots of direct morning light between 7 AM and noon, followed by bright indirect light for the remainder of the day. Spikes usually get between 1.5 to 2 feet tall. Numerous blossoms, but they're small. Fragrance is nice, but not overpowering. The only thing "abnormal" about my plant is that it always blooms in the winter, but I've read that the species normally flowers in the summer in its natural habitat.

[Tindomul]

Ok, thats great. Where did you get it? I would want mine to bloom in the winter as my south facing window gets more sun in the winter than in the summer time.

[smweaver]

This one came from a trade with a guy in South Florida a number of years ago. He said he couldn't get it to flower. For the first two years that I had it, I couldn't get it to flower either, although it grew like a weed. I inadvertently discovered that it likes cooler fall temperatures, which seem to help it initiate blooms.

[smweaver]

Spikes are coming along nicely. I think they're fairly attractive at this point even before the blooms open.

Coelia macrostachya spike development | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[Zoi2]

Oh wow!
Joann

[Jennyfleur]

Looking beautiful! I haven't seen this one before. My Coelia Bella has just finished flowering and it's interesting to see the difference between the two. Looking forward to more pics