Crucifix orchid (Epidendrum ibaguense) is a species of epiphytic orchid, meaning that it grows only on other plants. Epidendrum ibaguense is found in Trinidad, French Guyana, Venezuela, Colombia, and northern Brazil.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Epidendrum ibaguense (pronounced ee-bah-GAIN-say) is a species of epiphytic orchid of the genus Epidendrum which occurs in Trinidad, French Guiana, Venezuela, Colombia and Northern Brazil.
Like the other members of Epidendrum subgenus Amphiglotium Lindl., E. ibaguense exhibits a pseudo-monopodial growth habit: it produces a vertical stem covered with the sheathing bases of distichous leaves and without the swelling typical of the pseudobulbs found in many sympodial orchids. However, E. ibaguense is actually sympodial: the peduncle of the inflorescence, tightly covered for most of its length by thin, overlapping sheaths, is terminal, not lateral.
A new growth is then (usually) produced from near the base of the old one, although E. ibaguense will frequently produce a keiki from an old inflorescence. Like the other members of Epidendrum Amphiglotium section Schistochila Rchb.f., E. ibaguense flowers are borne on a congested, successively flowering raceme at the end of a long peduncle, and have a trilobate lip that is adnate to the column to the very apex.
Like the members of the subsections Carinata Rchb.f. and Tuberculata Rchb.f., the three lobes of the E. ibaguense lip are deeply fringed or lacerate. Like E. radicans, (but unlike E. secundum Jacq., E. fulgens, E. puniceoluteum, and E. cinnabarinum) the flowers of E. ibaguense are resupinate. E. ibaguense differs from E. radicans by producing most of its roots from near the bottom of the stem, and producing stems that “really stand up.” Like E. secundum Jacq. and E. radicans, different individuals of E. ibaguense can produce flowers that are lavender, red, orange, or yellow.
The chromosome number of an individual collected in Serra Pacaraina, Brazil, has been determined as 2n = 70.
II. How to Grow and Care
Crucifix orchid is known for its resilience and ease of care, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and experienced growers. A special care point for crucifix orchid is to provide bright indirect light to simulate their natural tropical environment. Moreover, crucifix orchid requires regular watering to stay hydrated, but it is crucial to allow the potting medium to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Sunlight
Crucifix orchid likes full sun. Plant it in a place with plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. Provide more than 6 hours of sunlight per day. Remember that insufficient light results in poor quality and may lead to reduced or no blooms.
Temperature
Orchid plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions, preferring warm, moist conditions. Optimum growth temperatures are between 18 to 28 ℃, and it’s best if there is a certain difference in temperature between day and night: for example, 20 to 25 ℃ during the day and 15 to 18 ℃ at night. Crucifix orchid is a drought-tolerant plant, but cannot tolerate waterlogging, and grows well at 50-70% humidity. If the leaf tips are withered, it means the environment is too dry. Use a humidifier or spray bottle to increase the air humidity.
Watering
Thriving in its native tropical rainforest, crucifix orchid has adapted to environments with high humidity and regular rainfall. This species exhibits a preference for consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of dryness. To mimic its natural habitat, crucifix orchid should be watered every week. As an epiphytic plant often grown indoors, crucifix orchid benefits from increased humidity, which supports its lush growth and vibrant flowering during the growing season.
Soil
The “soil” required for crucifix orchid is special because, as an epiphyte, it originally grew on big trees in tropical forests. You need to mimic this growing environment with, for example, water moss, wood chips, coconut shells, volcanic stones, or perlite as soil substrate. You can also buy orchid-specific soil directly from gardening stores.
Fertilizing
Fertilize crucifix orchid every two weeks with high phosphorus formula during active growth. Reduce to monthly in winter. Use diluted to 1/2 strength to boost blooming, root health, and vigor. Over-fertilization risks root damage; flush soil periodically. Tailor regime to lighting conditions and stage; brighter light may necessitate increased frequency. Practicing careful measurement ensures effective nourishment without harm.
Planting Instructions
You do not need a large pot to grow a crucifix orchid as it won’t produce a vigorous root system that occupies much space. If the pot is too large, the soil tends to collect water and cause root rot. The height of the pot should be 2.5 cm taller than the (pseudo)bulb of the crucifix orchid. You can easily buy crucifix orchid in a local gardening store and simply place it in breathable, well-drained substrate. After planting, use upright sticks to support flowering branches. In warm, humid climates, cover the root of crucifix orchid with sphagnum moss and attach them to a tree with strings.
Pruning
It is best to prune wilted crucifix orchid flowers promptly after blooming to reduce unnecessary nutrient consumption and promote more blooms. Trim withered and diseased leaves promptly to increase air circulation, thus reducing pests and diseases.
Propagation
Crucifix orchid, known for its distinctive reed-like stems and showy blooms, thrives when propagated through seed sowing. The primary challenge lies in mimicking natural conditions, as crucifix orchid’s seeds require a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi to germinate—a process often facilitated in a controlled lab setting using specialized growing mediums. For enthusiasts without access to laboratory techniques, division of pseudobulbs during repotting presents an alternative. Gently separate these structures, ensuring each division includes a growth point, and pot them in suitable orchid mix to encourage new growth.
Transplanting
Transplanting crucifix orchid is ideally done between late spring and early summer, leveraging the vigorous growth season. A semi-shaded location with bright, indirect light suits them best. Keep in mind, crucifix orchid prefers well-drained soil and moderate water during transplanting. Remember, a friendly touch can stimulate roots!
Rest period
To stimulate flowering, Epidendrum ibaguense does not need a period of rest. After flowering, the trunk of the plant is pruned, leaving 1-2 eyes to the base, and, if necessary, the orchid is transplanted and 2-3 days contain dry. This is necessary to acclimatize the plant and to prevent rotting of the roots from the transplant.
III. Harvesting and Storage
If you want to display crucifix orchid flowers in vases, harvest there are only 2-3 flowers blooming on the stem. Cut diagonally at the bottom of the flower stem, and place it in a vase immediately. You can enjoy the cut flower in clean water for about 14 days, or for a longer time with preservatives.