Patchy discoloration on pleurothallis

[mousley]

Anyone know what is forming on the paddle type leaves of this pleurothallis grobyi?

[Pattywack]

I am guessing this is algae on the leaves. Is this a new purchase or have you been growing it for some time? The picture is pretty good and it looks like algae to me. I’ve had plants with this and you can wet the leaf and gently rub and the algae comes off though not completely. Even lightly rub with your fingers.

I’ve never liked the look of it and I would assume it is unhealthy for the plant to be covered in algae. If this is due to your conditions, it maybe too wet/humid, not enough air circulation. If you received the plant like this, chances are the new growths will be algae free provided you are not growing in very humid, wet conditions.

Try to rub it off gently after moistening the areas. Hope that helps.

I love Pleurothallis grobyi, it is a great little miniature and good grower. The red speckles on the back of the leaves are too cute.

[mousley]

Many thanks for the reply. It is a new purchase and had the growth already. I am inclined to think it is algae also. This is probably not uncommon but I have not seen a lot of this.

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by mousley

Many thanks for the reply. It is a new purchase and had the growth already. I am inclined to think it is algae also. This is probably not uncommon but I have not seen a lot of this.

I have seen algae on leaves of plants from Andy's Orchids on occasion... where they grow it is REALLY humid. Doesn't seem to harm the plants, they grow in that environment very, very well.

[Pattywack]

Originally Posted by Roberta

I have seen algae on leaves of plants from Andy's Orchids on occasion... where they grow it is REALLY humid. Doesn't seem to harm the plants, they grow in that environment very, very well.

Roberta, does this look like algae to you as well? I have not been very successful in removing it from leaves, usually the plant is so small I’m afraid to damage it. Larger leaves are easier though I’ve only tried using water, nothing more. If it wipes off green, it’s definately algae.

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by Pattywack

Roberta, does this look like algae to you as well? I have not been very successful in removing it from leaves, usually the plant is so small I’m afraid to damage it. Larger leaves are easier though I’ve only tried using water, nothing more. If it wipes off green, it’s definately algae.

I think it probably is though I can't see it clearly. It won't come off completely... seems to bond to the leaf. (a little dish soap in the water might help and won't hurt the plant) But the new leaves will be clean. I would not worry about it.

[Pattywack]

Originally Posted by Roberta

I think it probably is though I can't see it clearly. It won't come off completely... seems to bond to the leaf. (a little dish soap in the water might help and won't hurt the plant) But the new leaves will be clean. I would not worry about it.

Probably best to leave it alone. Pleurothallis grobyi has such tiny leaves, I wouldn’t want to damage them. Thanks for your input!