Vivi's Orchid Corner

November 2006 - Volume 11, Issue 11

Alcra. Mervyn Grant 'Talisman Cove'

Alcra. Mervyn Grant 'Talisman Cove'

Dear Orchid Friends:

Wow – eye popping!

Alcra. Mervyn Grant ‘Talisman Cove’ is a fantastic orchid; I was delighted to see the first flowering of this orchid.

The generic name of this orchid is Aliceara, an interesting cross of Brassia x Miltonia x Oncidium, and is abbreviated as Alcra. This cross certainly displays the great characteristics of its genera components.

Flowers are 4 inches in diameter with 4-5 flowers per spike. Flower spikes are tall and approximately 2 ft tall. The large ruffled skirt glistens and is a light yellow hue. The classic wavy skirt highlights the Oncidium characteristics. The skirt has unusual cinnamon colored markings at the upper portion of the lip which resembles a ‘butterfly’ pattern and delicate speckles on surrounding the ‘butterfly’. One line of vertical markings highlights the lower section of the skirt.

Petals and sepals are elliptical with curvy edges and pointed tips. Note how the sepals curve slightly backward, folding away from the flower and display the distinctive, separated petals I love about the Brassias. Markings on the petals and sepals are a port wine color with light yellow edges. The column has deep goldenrod markings.

Pseudobulbs are tall and elongated. Leaves are the strap leaved variety; however, leaves do have some substance. Water well to prevent the finer roots from drying completely. Ensure adequate high light to promote flower growth. Keep the plant evenly moist.

Alcra. Mervyn Grant ‘Talisman Cove’ has a light clean fragrance during the day. Flowers are long lasting – up to several weeks.

I acquired this beauty from the famous grower Milt Carpenter. Not growing this genus before, I was anxious to try my skills (and luck). This has been a winner and a delight! Hope you enjoy the photos!

Until next time,

Vivi