Encyclia Plicata
Thomas Fennell Orchid
Encyclias are epiphytic orchids that are very variable, and range in size from 2" inch plants up to pseudobulbs the size of softballs with leaves 2' or more in length. What they all have in common is a lip that, while not fused to the column, more or less enfolds it. 'Encyclia Plicata' is a large Encyclia that likes heat, high humidity and a period of dormancy. Provide ample water and fertiliser during periods of active growth and then allow the plant to rest by reducing water for a few months. For best results, provide bright light, warmth, and humidity. There is an alba form of the species.
Contributed by @jmackfl
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Partial shade
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Occasional watering
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Not Frost hardy
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Moist and free draining
Common name
Thomas Fennell Orchid
Latin name
Encyclia Plicata
type
Orchid
family
Orchidaceae
ph
5.0 - 8.0 Acid - Neutral
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Light
Partial shade
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Frost
Not Frost hardy
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Soil
Moist and free draining
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Water
Occasional watering
Plant & bloom calendar
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Best time to plant
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When the plant will bloom
full grown dimensions
0.25 M
0.55 M
Encyclia Plicata
Encyclias are epiphytic orchids that are very variable, and range in size from 2" inch plants up to pseudobulbs the size of softballs with leaves 2' or more in length. What they all have in common is a lip that, while not fused to the column, more or less enfolds it. 'Encyclia Plicata' is a large Encyclia that likes heat, high humidity and a period of dormancy. Provide ample water and fertiliser during periods of active growth and then allow the plant to rest by reducing water for a few months. For best results, provide bright light, warmth, and humidity. There is an alba form of the species.
Flowering
From Early Spring TO Late Winter
Encyclia produces flowers that last about three months (sometimes even longer) at any time of the year. Once the flowers have faded, cut the flowering stalk back to just above the second node (joint) visible beneath the spent flowers. A new flowering side shoot may develop.
Planting young plants
From Early Spring TO Late Winter
Sometimes small plantlets (keiki) appear from the nodes on the flower stems. Detach the plantlets when they have developed several good roots and pot them up in orchid compost. Water them sparingly at first, but mist them daily. Always use a proprietary orchid compost. Ensure good light levels in winter, as these are essential to encourage flowering. An east- or west-facing window would be ideal. Move to a shadier spot in summer and protect from direct sunshine.
Flowering
From Early Spring TO Late Winter
Many orchids do not have a flowering season and flowers may be produced at any time if the right conditions are being met. Terrestrial orchids grown outdoors will mostly flower in the summer months. Flowers can last for several months.
Planting young plants
From Early Autumn TO Late Autumn
Sometimes small plantlets (keiki) appear from the nodes on the flower stems. Detach the plantlets when they have developed several good roots and pot them up in orchid compost. Water them sparingly at first, but mist them daily. Always use a proprietary orchid compost. Ensure good light levels in winter, as these are essential to encourage flowering. An east- or west-facing window would be ideal. Move to a shadier spot in summer and protect from direct sunshine. When planting terrestrial orchids outdoors, plant in semi-shade, no direct sun at midday. A very suitable place would also be on the north side of a building. Most orchids are woodland plants and therefore prefer cool sites, which do not become too dry and hot during summer. Places where ferns thrive are also suitable for. Don’t plant your orchids close to trees or big shrubs because their roots are effective competition for water and nutrients! Autumn is the best season for planting. Spread out the roots in the upper 10 cm (4 inches) of the soil, the rhizome 2-3 cm (1 inch) below the surface, shoot buds upwards. Fill in the remaining substrate without compressing it, and water thoroughly.
demona88
flaviomolina
jmackfl