Tongue Orchid
cynorkis purpurascens
Also known as: ["Purple Cynorkis","Orchid Tongue"]
Overview
A rare orchid species native to Madagascar, known for its unique tongue-shaped lip and purple coloration.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Cynorkis |
| Botanical Name: | Cynorkis purpurascens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light and 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, charcoal, and a small amount of sphagnum moss for aeration and moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when dead foliage is present; typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to dappled light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct midday sun; place in east-facing windows or under shade cloth outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting the crown to prevent rot; ensure thorough watering reaches the root zone.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with perlite and bark
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure medium is not compacted; repot if medium breaks down; avoid heavy garden soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night promote flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent night/day cycles; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Flush soil periodically to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of pseudobulbs; best for mature plants with multiple growths.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy pseudobulbs.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone (if used).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible; monitor for signs of rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base; trim leaves just above the node; divide overcrowded pseudobulbs carefully.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead leaves to direct energy to new growth; occasional thinning of overcrowded pseudobulbs.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring or early summer after flowering.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove old medium; trim dead roots; repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage; position pseudobulbs just above soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; essential for healthy root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; sterilize tools; trim roots; use fresh medium; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water early morning; ensure drainage; avoid crown wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the pot. Allow excess water to drain completely, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, bud drop, stunted growth, or fungal infections in overly warm/humid conditions.
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 placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; ensure adequate air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCynorkis purpurascens 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-toxicCynorkis purpurascens 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-toxicCynorkis purpurascens 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: Is Cynorkis purpurascens easy to grow?
A: No, it is considered challenging and requires expert care due to its specific environmental needs.
Q: Does this orchid produce fragrant flowers?
A: Yes, it is known for its fragrant blooms.
Q: Where is this orchid native to?
A: It is native to Madagascar.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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