Hornless Stanhopea
stanhopea ecornuta
Also known as: ["Hornless Stanhopea","Stanhopea without horns"]
Overview
A species of epiphytic orchid known for its unique, fragrant flowers that emerge from the base of the plant on pendant inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Stanhopea |
| Botanical Name: | Stanhopea ecornuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or greenhouse with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when foliage appears damaged.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reducing to every 10–14 days in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging roots.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and charcoal
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use orchid-specific mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler nights (55–65°F) promote blooming; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent night/day cycles.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or rhizomes; mature plants only.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide plant into sections with 3–4 pseudobulbs.
- Pot in fresh medium.
- Water lightly.
- Provide humidity.
Best Time: After flowering, during active growth (spring-summer).
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for cuttings.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized pots, orchid mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep humidity high; 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 maintain plant health.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead or damaged parts; clean up debris; disinfect after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium breaks down; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh medium; water sparingly; provide shade post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until water drains freely from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure chunky texture for air circulation.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf burn in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use grow lights for warmth if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may cease; flowers may abort in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; flush soil monthly; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStanhopea ecornuta is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicStanhopea ecornuta is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicStanhopea ecornuta is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Stanhopea ecornuta?
A: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: What is the ideal growing medium for Stanhopea ecornuta?
A: A well-draining medium such as fir bark, sphagnum moss, or a specialized orchid mix is recommended.
Q: Does Stanhopea ecornuta require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other epiphytic orchids.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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