Vivi's Orchid Corner

October 2006 - Volume 11, Issue 10

Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist'

Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist'

Dear Orchid Friends:

This month's orchid article is certain to give that dash of bright color to your collection. Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist' is a gorgeous Brassavola cross. Flowers are delicate and a brilliant orange color. This compact plant blooms vigorously in small pots and easily grows into a medium height plant. Teretes are flatter than the pencil variety and grow upright in a dense cluster.

Give this orchid strong morning sun light, warm temperatures and healthy doses of water. Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist' is a hardy plant. I have had great success with a mixture of medium - seedling mix, and a special mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss has worked well for me. Do water well and frequently. It is important to remember one caveat when growing orchids; Growing instructions provided are based on environment, area of the country, amount of shade or sun and a variety of other factors.

These delicate star-shaped flowers are a bright, brilliant orange. Flowers are borne on a long stem containing 4-5 individual flowers. Flowers are 2 ½ - 3 inches across and are just a luscious tangerine shade. Petals and sepals are elliptical with distinct, separated petals. The lip is elongated with delicate ruffles and light shade of orange. Deep, minute maroon speckles grace the lovely skirted lip. Flowers are fragrant and have a delicate tangy aroma. Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist' blooms late spring and early summer and are vigorous bloomers. Flowers are long-lasting.

Brassavola crosses have always been some of my favorite orchids and Bpl. Golden Peacock 'Sunkist' is no exception.

Until next time,

Vivi