Stanhopea tigrina

I've never been very good with this group of plants, but I've always admired them. I'm determined now to venture out and learn their culture. I've been told they should easily be grown outdoors here, but I think I've overwatered in the past. This is a recent addition to the collection, so I can't take bloom credit. I didn't blast the blooms, though, and I'm getting some strong growths sprouting now. I'm hoping for continued success! I was a bit disappointed that I missed the "pop" of the buds that is reported in this genus, but the size of the flowers made up for my disappointment.

 

Bud, I bought this from our local show from EFG Orchids in Florida. They had a few more specimens of various Stanhopea species. All were quite large and more than reasonably priced.

Yes, Tom. This is one of the largest plants in my collection aside from the Catts. and Schomburgkias I have. I can deal with ugly leaves if the flowers are this nice. I think the overall growth habit has an architectural value that many orchid groups lack.

Thanks for that Marni! I'll keep it in mind. I grew them with my mounted plants previously because I read how they loved water, but they obviously didn't like that much. This one is in a 6" basket with sphag, so two waterings a week plus whatever it gets by rainfall keeps it moist but not overly wet.

 

You may want to call or email EFG. I've bought from them at shows for probably 10 years now, and I think the website has been updated once in that time. Who's Brent?