Dracula venosa culture and tips needed

[Larry M.]

I recently accuired my first Dracula, Dracula venosa. Upon arrival, it has several new flower spikes. I have had it for approximately 2 weeks, and one of the flower spikes has turned brown and dried up.

I have never grown a Dracula before, but have had very good luck with Masdevallia. I am growing indoors in an enclosed area with plenty of light and a humidifier which is holding relative humidity between 50 (night) and 70 percent (days). Daytime temps mid to upper 70s and plenty of air movement.

I so want to see this beauty bloom and do not want to loose it. I am looking forward to hearing any and all cultural tips from anyone with experience with Dracula, as this is a major challange and learning experience for me.

[RosieC]

I don't grow these but I've heard they are more fussy on cool temps than Masdies.

Over the summer my Masdie spike aborted and went brown and I was advised here on OB that it could have been the temps, which had been up in the high 70's in the shade... which is not particularly common outdoors here.

Since then the Masdie has successfully flowered but the temps have been between 50 (night) and anywhere between low 60's to high 60's during the day.

If I'm right in remembering that Dracula need cooler temps than Masdies, or are more picky being in that cooler temp range then it could be the temp that has cause it.

[Larry M.]

Before ordering this Dracula, I did some research with the grower. It requires intermediate temps, which I seem to be able to supply. I am growing in a controlled environment, so it is fairly cool and I have great air movement. The other spikes seem to be ok so far, but I am taking every measure to maintain and keep them healthy.

This has been a dream of mine for a long time to own and flower at least one Dracula. I assumed that they were more difficult than Masds, but am hopefully up to the challenge.

[RosieC]

Not sure if Dracula are the same as Masdies in this way, but I once read someone say that 'Intermediate' when applied to Masdies is still what you would call 'Cool' with other types of orchids and that even the 'Intermediates' prefer cooler temps. That having been said I have heard of someone growing a truely intermediate Masdie in their office under a desk lamp.

Sorry I can't help more. I hope your other spikes make it.

[Larry M.]

Thanks Rosie. I'm probably panicking anyway. Didn't take in the fact that this plant was shipped 2nd day and spent some time in heat (I do live in Florida). I've been examining the remaining spikes, and they seem fine. Looking forward to posting pics of my new baby when it blooms.

[RosieC]

Glad the remaining spikes are looking good, could well be the heat during shipping.