Uncut Orchids http://UncutOrchids.com Everything About Orchids Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:12:49 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.4 en hourly 1 Orchid of the Day – 239389 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-239389/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-239389/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:12:49 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1801

Orchid of the Day
Leptotes unicolor



Leptotes unicolor: The smallest of this genus, Leptotes unicolor. About half the size of Leptotes bicolor in both plant and flower size.


Complete Name: Leptotes unicolor
Pronunciation of Genus: Lep-toh’-teez
Category: Cattleya Alliance
Origin: Brazil
Description and Qualities: About half the size of Leptotes bicolor in both plant and flower size.
Flower Description: 1-2″(2.5-5cm) pink to almost white flowers.
Season of Bloom: Winter to Spring
Mature Size & Habit: Miniature. About 1 1/2′(4cm) tall.
Species or Hybrid? Species
Type of Fragrance: Sweet
Description of Fragrance: Sweet floral
Intensity Of Fragrance: Light
When Fragrant: Day
Suitable Growing Area: Windowsill, Lights, Greenhouse
Ease of Culture: Intermediate. Orchids in this category are recommended to growers who have mastered growing at least a few of the easier ones in the Easy category. They frequently have higher light and humidity requirements. They can usually be grown on a bright windowsill (east or south facing). They may be more particular in their cultural requirements to insure re-blooming.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate to warm. Night temperatures: 60°F (16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Best grown mounted.
Cultural Tips: Water generously when in active growth.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Fragrant Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-239389/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 296403 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-296403/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-296403/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:02:18 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1799

Orchid of the Day
Lepotes bicolor



Leptotes bicolor: Leptotes bicolor presents a small, but colorful flower. There are only two commonly grown species in this genus,. This is the larger flowering of the two.

Leptotes bicolor presents a small, but colorful flower.

Complete Name: Lepotes bicolor
Pronunciation of Genus: Lep-toh’-teez
Category: Cattleya Alliance
AKA: Bletia bicolor, Leptotes glaucophylla
Origin: Brazil
Description and Qualities: There are only two commonly grown species in this genus,. This is the larger flowering of the two.
Flower Description: Flowers are about 2″ (5 cm) and are bright with a purple pink lip.
Season of Bloom: Winter to Spring
Species or Hybrid? Species
Description of Fragrance: Vanilla
Intensity Of Fragrance: Light
When Fragrant: Day
Ease of Culture: Intermediate. Orchids in this category are recommended to growers who have mastered growing at least a few of the easier ones in the Easy category. They frequently have higher light and humidity requirements. They can usually be grown on a bright windowsill (east or south facing). They may be more particular in their cultural requirements to insure re-blooming.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°-60°F (13°-16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Usually grown mounted and can also be grown small pots with fine, well-draining media.
Cultural Tips: Water generously when in active growth.
History: Discovered by Harrison in Rio de Janeiro and described in 1833 by Lindley.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Fragrant Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-296403/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 527597 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-527597/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-527597/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:47:04 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1796

Orchid of the Day
Lepanthes ribes ‘Wow’



Lepanthes ribes 'Wow': Lepanthes ribes 'Wow' is a very darkly colored selection of the species. Named for its resemblance to a red gooseberry. This beautiful species has a reputation for being temperament. Try some of the other Lepanthes first.

Lepanthes ribes ‘Wow’ is a very darkly colored selection of the species.

Complete Name: Lepanthes ribes ‘Wow’
Pronunciation of Genus: Le-pan’-theez
Origin: Colombia
Description and Qualities: Named for its resemblance to a red gooseberry. This beautiful species has a reputation for being temperament. Try some of the other Lepanthes first.
Flower Description: 1/2″ red striped, pouched or bucket shaped flower produced from the middle of the leaf.
Season of Bloom: Variable
Plant Size Category: Miniature. Miniatures are up to 3″ (7.5 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: About 3″ (7.5 cm)
Species or Hybrid? Species
Ease of Culture: Challenging. These orchids should not be attempted until you have been successful with at least some of the orchids in the Intermediate category. They frequently have very specific requirements of humidity, day and/or night minimum or maximum temperatures, or special dormancy treatments. Do not attempt to grow these until you thoroughly understand their cultural requirements and are confident that you can provide them.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Cool to intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°F (13°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Usually grown mounted and can also be grown small pots with fine, well-draining media.
Cultural Tips: Keep evenly moist with high humidity


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-527597/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 70934 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-70934/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-70934/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:40:37 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1794

Orchid of the Day
Lepanthes maduroi



Lepanthes maduroi: A rarely seen, Lepanthes maduroi. Like most of the species in this genus, you need a magnifying glass to fully appreciate the delicate beauty of these flowers.

A rarely seen, Lepanthes maduroi.

Complete Name: Lepanthes maduroi
Pronunciation of Genus: Le-pan’-theez
Origin: Panama
Description and Qualities: Like most of the species in this genus, you need a magnifying glass to fully appreciate the delicate beauty of these flowers.
Flower Description: 1/2″ bronze colored, rounded flowers
Season of Bloom: Spring to Summer
Plant Size Category: Miniature. Miniatures are up to 3″ (7.5 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: About 2 1/2″ tall (6 cm)
Species or Hybrid? Species
Ease of Culture: Challenging. These orchids should not be attempted until you have been successful with at least some of the orchids in the Intermediate category. They frequently have very specific requirements of humidity, day and/or night minimum or maximum temperatures, or special dormancy treatments. Do not attempt to grow these until you thoroughly understand their cultural requirements and are confident that you can provide them.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Cool to intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°F (13°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Usually grown mounted and can also be grown small pots with fine, well-draining media.
Cultural Tips: Keep evenly moist with high humidity.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-70934/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 532467 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-532467/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-532467/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:28:53 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1792

Orchid of the Day
Laeliocattleya Tsiku Hibiscus



Laeliocattleya Tsiku Hibiscus: A rich lavender flower with a delightful scent makes Laeliocattleya Tsiku Hibiscus a choice orchid. This variety still shows its strong influence from the species, Cattleya walkeriana, with its flower shape, color and fragrance.

A rich lavender flower with a delightful scent makes Laeliocattleya Tsiku Hibiscus a choice orchid.

Complete Name: Laeliocattleya Tsiku Hibiscus
Pronunciation of Genus: Lay-lee-oh-kat’lee-ya
Origin: Registered Tsiku Taiwan Orchids in 2000.
Description and Qualities: This variety still shows its strong influence from the species, Cattleya walkeriana, with its flower shape, color and fragrance.
Flower Description: 3″ (7.5 cm) deep lavender pink flowers with darker lips.
Season of Bloom: Winter to Spring
Plant Size Category: Dwarf. Dwarfs are 3″ to 8″ (20 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: About 6-8″ (15-17.5 cm) tall.
Species or Hybrid? Hybrid
Parent #1: Laeliocattleya Mini Purple
Parent #2: Laeliocattleya Aloha Case
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°-60°F (13°-16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Medium orchid bark or coco chip mixes.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-532467/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 340420 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-340420/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-340420/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:11:42 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1790

Orchid of the Day
Laeliocattleya Rojo



Laeliocattleya Rojo: An older hybrid, Laeliocattleya is still frequently found in today's collections. One of the first, very bright red, small, but multiple flowering hybrids. It is still used frequently as a parent for next generation hybrids.

An older hybrid, Laeliocattleya is still frequently found in today’s collections.

Complete Name: Laeliocattleya Rojo
Pronunciation of Genus: Lay-lee-oh-kat’lee-ya
Origin: Registered by Rod McLellan Co. in 1965.
Description and Qualities: One of the first, very bright red, small, but multiple flowering hybrids. It is still used frequently as a parent for next generation hybrids.
Flower Description: About 2 1/2″ (7cm) orange red flowers borne in clusters.
Season of Bloom: Winter to Spring
Plant Size Category: Compact. Compacts are 8″ to 12″ (30 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: About 12″ (30 cm) tall
Species or Hybrid? Hybrid
Parent #1: Cattleya aurantiaca
Parent #2: Laelia milleri
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°-60°F (13°-16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Medium orchid bark or coco chip mixes.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-340420/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 282328 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-282328/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-282328/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:01:10 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1788

Orchid of the Day
Laeliocattleya Mari’s Song ‘CTM 217′ HCC/AOS



Laeliocattleya Mari's Song 'CTM 217' HCC/AOS: Lc. Mari's Song 'CMT 217' HCC/AOS is a favorite among windowsill and light growers because of its compact habit and colorful show. Photo by Bill Norton.

Lc. Mari’s Song ‘CMT 217′ HCC/AOS is a favorite among windowsill and light growers because of its compact habit and colorful show. Photo by Bill Norton.

Complete Name: Laeliocattleya Mari’s Song ‘CTM 217′ HCC/AOS
Pronunciation of Genus: Lay-lee-oh-Kat’-lee-ya
Category: Cattleya Alliance
Origin: Hybrid
Flower Description: 4 1/2″ (11 cm) white flower with bright magenta flares and lip, pink sepals, and yellow throat.
Season of Bloom: Variable
Mature Size & Habit: Very compact grower.
Species or Hybrid? Hybrid
Parent #1: Lc. Irene Finney
Parent #2: C. Cherry Chip
Type of Fragrance: Sweet
Description of Fragrance: Sweet floral
Intensity Of Fragrance: Strong
When Fragrant: Day
Suitable Growing Area: Windowsill, Lights, Greenhouse
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Medium to high. At least several hours of a bright south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 2000-3500 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be as close as possible from a 4-tube standard fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights) or VHO or T5 fluorescents. This level of light casts a very sharp shadow with the hand test. Use 50% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°-60°F (13°-16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Cattleya mix.
History: “One of the more recent “mini-catts” that is fragrant.”


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Fragrant Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-282328/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 112618 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-112618/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-112618/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:46:05 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1786

Orchid of the Day
Doritis pulcherrima var. alba



Doritis pulcherrima var. alba: This white form show typical flower shape found in this species. The more common, straight species is purple rather that white. This species is frequently crossed with Phalaenopsis species and hybrids to add its bright color, an upright inflorescence and compact growing habit.

This white form show typical flower shape found in this species.

Complete Name: Doritis pulcherrima var. alba
Pronunciation of Genus: Doe-rye’-tis
Origin: Southeast Asia
Description and Qualities: The more common, straight species is purple rather that white. This species is frequently crossed with Phalaenopsis species and hybrids to add its bright color, an upright inflorescence and compact growing habit.
Flower Description: 1″ clear white flower borne on 12″ (30 cm) inflorescence. The straight species, Doritis pulcherrima has purple flowers.
Season of Bloom: Spring to Summer
Plant Size Category: Dwarf. Dwarfs are 3″ to 8″ (20 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: Low growing. 6-8″(15-17cm) leaf spread.
Species or Hybrid? Species
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate to warm. Night temperatures: 60°F (16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Medium textured epiphytic mix.
Cultural Tips: Grow in similar condition as phalaenopsis but do not require quite as much warmth and prefer slightly more light.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-112618/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 199082 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-199082/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-199082/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:39:20 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1784

Orchid of the Day
Doritis pulcherrima var. champornensis



Doritis pulcherrima var. champornensis:

“Notice both the petals of this botanical variety have the same coloration and shape as the lip of the orchid. This type of flower is called “peloric”. Some consider such flowers “freaks”, while others consider them delightful mutations.”

Complete Name: Doritis pulcherrima var. champornensis
Pronunciation of Genus: Doe-rye’-tis
Origin: Southeast Asia
Description and Qualities: This orchid looks like a very small growing phalaenopsis, to which it is closely related. It has upright flower spikes with usually pink to dark purple color forms. There also is a white form (alba). The dark pink forms usually carry their color and upright flower spikes to their offspring when they are hybridized with phalaenopsis.
Flower Description: 1″ flowers, usually in shades of pink, sometimes white, borne on an upright inflorescence of 12″ (30 cm) or more.
Season of Bloom: Spring to Summer
Plant Size Category: Dwarf. Dwarfs are 3″ to 8″ (20 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: Very compact grower with leaves that spread to about 6″ (15 cm).
Species or Hybrid? Species
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Low to medium. East facing window with at least 6 hours of diffused sunlight, between 1200-1500 footcandles. Top of foliage should be 8-10″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids can be placed at the ends of the growing lights rather than in the center. This level of light cast a diffused shadow with the hand test. Use 70% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate to warm. Night temperatures: 60°F (16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
Potting Medium: Fine to medium epiphytic mix.
Cultural Tips: Likes similar growing conditions to phalaenopsis, but with slightly more light and dryness between waterings.
History: Originally collected in Vietnam. First described by John Lindley in 1833.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


]]> http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-199082/feed/ 0 Orchid of the Day – 949067 http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-949067/ http://UncutOrchids.com/orchid-of-the-day-949067/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:26:53 +0000 admin http://UncutOrchids.com/?p=1782

Orchid of the Day
Laeliocattleya Irene’s Song



Laeliocattleya Irene's Song: A gorgeous splash petal type of cattleya hybrid that is both sweetly scented and gloriously colored.


Complete Name: Laeliocattleya Irene’s Song
Description and Qualities: A gorgeous splash petal type of cattleya hybrid that is both sweetly scented and gloriously colored.
Season of Bloom: Variable
Plant Size Category: Compact. Compacts are 8″ to 12″ (30 cm.) high and/or wide.
Mature Size & Habit: 8-10″ high
Species or Hybrid? Hybrid
Parent #1: Laeliocattleya Mari’s Song
Parent #2: Laeliocattleya Irene Finney
Ease of Culture: Easy. These orchids are especially recommended for the new orchid grower. They are tolerant of varying light conditions, usually medium to low intensity, can be grown in the home in most windowsills or under fluorescent light set-ups, do not have high humidity, adapt well to average room temperatures, and will dependably re-bloom with a modicum of care.
Light Requirement: Medium. Very bright east facing window with at least 8 hours of diffused sunlight or a south facing window with light diffused curtain, between 1500-3000 foot-candles. Top of foliage should be 6″ from a 4-tube fluorescent light setup. Orchids should be placed at the center of the growing lights where it is the brightest. Can also be grown under HID (high intensity discharge lights.) Casts a very distinguishable shadow with the hand test. Use 60% shade on greenhouse.
Temperature Preference: Intermediate. Night temperatures: 55°-60°F (13°-16°C); Day temperatures: 10°-15°F (5°-8°C) warmer than night temperatures.
History: Registered by Norman’s Orchids in 1999.


Photo and information courtesy of Steven A. Frowine
from his book “Miniature Orchids”


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