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cynorkis fastigiata

Also known as: []

Family: Orchidaceae Genus: Cynorkis Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of orchid native to Madagascar, notable for its slender stems and small, delicate flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Orchidaceae
Genus: Cynorkis
Botanical Name: Cynorkis fastigiata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Indoor Plant Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days, especially during dry periods
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite and a small amount of charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Adjust to lower light in winter if natural light diminishes.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Place in east or west-facing windows indoors; provide dappled shade outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

filtered light or partial shade

Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in dormancy

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.

Soil

well-draining orchid mix with perlite and bark

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).

Ensure medium is well-aerated; avoid heavy potting soils; flush periodically to prevent salt buildup.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth. Tolerates cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent day/night cycles; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer, none in dormancy

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of pseudobulbs.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy pseudobulbs or stems.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Apply rooting hormone if used.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can aid root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Clean scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut flower spikes at the base; trim dead leaves cleanly without damaging healthy tissue.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flower spikes and dead foliage to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; remove only dead parts; dispose of debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, just before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down. Necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh orchid mix; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the pot. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth (spring to summer), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate orchid bark for aeration; use charcoal to absorb toxins.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis, bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf necrosis in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows metabolic processes, inhibits flowering, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during dormancy.

Hot Stress

Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration, especially above 85°F (29°C).

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted orchid fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid dormant period.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Cease fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cynorkis fastigiata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations. It can also result from environmental stress, such as excessive light or poor soil conditions, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cynorkis fastigiata is often a sign of water stress, either due to underwatering or root damage from overwatering or pathogens. It can also occur in response to high temperatures or low humidity, leading to reduced turgor pressure in plant tissues.

Leaf spots on Cynorkis fastigiata may be caused by fungal, bacterial, or viral pathogens. These spots can vary in size and color, potentially leading to leaf necrosis, reduced photosynthetic efficiency, and overall decline in plant health.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can affect Cynorkis fastigiata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections. This can lead to the decay of plant tissues, loss of structural integrity, and eventual plant death if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cynorkis fastigiata is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cynorkis fastigiata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cynorkis fastigiata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Cynorkis fastigiata?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the potting medium to dry out between waterings.

Q: Does this orchid require special lighting?

A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other orchids.

Q: Is Cynorkis fastigiata 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: filtered light or partial shad
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","indoor plant lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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