Cortezian orchid
guarianthe skinneri
Also known as: ["Cortez's orchid","Skinner's orchid"]
Overview
A large epiphytic orchid native to Central America, known for its vibrant red-orange flowers that bloom in clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Guarianthe |
| Botanical Name: | Guarianthe skinneri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or mounted on bark in bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid mix with bark, perlite, and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal changes to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching; provide filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for protection; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy potting soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler nights (55–65°F) can promote blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize after watering; flush periodically to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of mature plants; occasionally through backbulb propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide plant into sections with roots.
- Pot in orchid mix.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (60–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Orchid mix with perlite or sphagnum moss for backbulbs.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help for backbulbs.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; backbulbs: 6–12 months to root and grow.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized pots, orchid mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim dead leaves with clean shears.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to encourage new growth and blooming.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; trim damaged leaves; sterilize tools.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting mix breaks down; after blooming is ideal.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh orchid mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting leaves; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse bark to improve drainage; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, bud drop, or stunted growth; yellowing or browning leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced blooming due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) at half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGuarianthe skinneri is not considered toxic to cats. This orchid species does not pose a health risk if ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGuarianthe skinneri is not considered toxic to dogs. This orchid species does not pose a health risk if ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGuarianthe skinneri is not considered toxic to humans. It is a species of orchid that poses no significant health risks upon contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Guarianthe skinneri?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light; adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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