Panama Dichaea
dichaea panamensis
Also known as: []
Overview
A species of orchid native to Panama, known for its delicate flowers and epiphytic growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Dichaea |
| Botanical Name: | Dichaea panamensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or sheltered outdoor location with high humidity and bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–13"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Epiphytic mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only damaged or spent parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade with dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer blinds to diffuse intense sun; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging; use room-temperature water.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes, avoid compacted soil, use a mix with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler temperatures (55–65°F or 13–18°C) during winter dormancy.
Avoid drafts, maintain stable temperatures, use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with aerial roots or division of mature clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Moss, perlite, or a mix of peat and sand with good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools, maintain consistent moisture, provide bottom heat if possible, avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or aerial root; avoid cutting into old growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing stems to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at correct angle, remove only necessary parts, clean up debris, inspect for pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, position plant correctly, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add orchid bark or perlite to improve aeration; incorporate peat moss for moisture retention; use coarse sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, inhibits nutrient uptake, and may cause root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid overwatering, and use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, water before fertilizing, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDichaea panamensis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDichaea panamensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDichaea panamensis 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 Dichaea panamensis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the medium to dry slightly between waterings, especially during the dormant season.
Q: Does Dichaea panamensis require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other epiphytic orchids.
Q: Is Dichaea panamensis suitable for beginners?
A: It is best suited for intermediate orchid growers due to its specific care requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade with dappled lig |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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