Cochleanthes: An Orchid From the Amazon
I bought this gorgeous Cochleanthes at an orchid show five years ago, and it has been one of my most reliable bloomers ever since. Its captivating white flowers boast great purple highlights.
This species is native to the Amazon Rainforest, from Brazil to Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The flowers appear fragile, but they’re thick and waxy, and can last for months. These sparkling white blooms reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall. My orchid books say this variety is very fragrant, but I’ve only detected a light scent from my plant.
With thin leaves, this species needs frequent waterings and high humidity. Keep it in shady conditions, although a little morning sun is ok. Be cautious with repotting, since it has delicate roots. Fertilize weakly, weekly, and an occasional dose of compost will encourage blooming.
To pronounce Cochleanthes, say “coke-lee-ANN-these.” This species has recently been renamed, so it’s now called Warczewiczella amazonica. I can’t figure out how to pronounce that, so I’ll stick with the old name. And I’ll continue to enjoy a colorful little part of the Amazon Rainforest in my home.
Explore posts in the same categories: Fertilizing, Fragrant Orchids, Growing, Intermediate Growers, Photos, Watering
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August 30th, 2015 at 5:46 am
Thanks for this blog! I just bought my first orchid at a local hardware store and I am looking forward to the adventure of orchids.
September 2nd, 2015 at 8:12 am
Beautiful pictures, I love orchids!
October 2nd, 2015 at 9:34 pm
Please I am in orchid How can I get my hands on this one would love to have one for my self thanks for posting it. I will take any info you may have to purchased my own. Thank you
October 3rd, 2015 at 12:11 pm
AboutOrchids doesn’t sell orchids directly, but you can check with our advertisers. This is not a common orchid to find, so it will take some work. Your local orchid society and orchid show will have lots of great local info to help you, so connect with them, too. Good luck!