Vivi's Orchid Corner

May 2005 - Volume 10, Issue 5

Epidendrum ciliare, AKA Encyclia ciliare

Dear Orchid Friends:

Epidendrum ciliare falls in the Epidendrum genus and is a relative of the cattleya. Epidendrum ciliare is reported to have been brought to Great Britain from the West Indies in the late 1700's. This orchid thrives in subtropical climates: Mexico to South America (Brazil, Peru) and the West Indies. Epidendrum ciliare is an epiphyte and prefers to be mounted on bark, cork, and tree branches, however, they do grow well potted. The medium sized plant has cylindrical pseudobulbs with one or two leaves at the tip of each pseudobulb. Leaves are lanceolate and are approximately 8-20 cm in length.

This orchid flowers generally in spring and early summer and is considered moderately difficult to grow. Epidendrum ciliare is adaptive and tolerates a surprisingly wide growing environment from higher altitudes of 2000m to humid lowland locations.

Flowers are delicate and wispy. The thin tepals (sepals and petals) are long and tapering and are a yellow to pale green color. The lip is split into three distinctive sections. The center lip is a single long lobe, while the side lobes are flared and fringed. Epidendrum ciliare is a wonderfully fragrant orchid. Flowers are approximately 4-5 inches in diameter (7-9 cm). I love the unusual flowers.

These orchids prefer bright light- much like cattleyas. Remember they are cattleya relatives and will need the sunshine and light to bloom. Water generously as they are accustomed to higher moist elevations and humid lowlands.

Epidendrum ciliare add an interesting variety to any orchid collection and you will certainly enjoy their sweet fragrance. They will delight without taking up too much room on your greenhouse benches.

Until next time,

Vivi