The Candlestick Orchid
The most commonly grown of this small genus, Arpophyllum spicatum is often called the ‘Candlestick Orchid’. The flowers appear as tall spikes and they are a a remarkably hardy orchid, growing well in a sunny potion.
These are naturally found as epiphytic and terrestrial orchids and are found from Mexico through to Columbia.
A. spicatum with its lilac to purple flowers will reach around .5 to .7 metres, upright strap like foliage and long lasting flowers.
Flowering period is usually in spring after a winter dormancy in its natural habitat at elevations of 1000 to 2400 meters, in open areas of mid to high altitude forests however it can also flower from mid autumn to early winter, this does depend on the climate and growing conditions.
How To grow Arpophyllum spicatum – Basic Care
Like many orchids, Arpophyllum spicatum like to be a little pot bound, it will flower more reliably with a restricted root run. It is an orchid that can be grown in containers as well as hanging baskets, it also grows well in the garden if left undisturbed.
In containers use a potting mix that will allow the plant to be left for a number of years. The growing medium needs to moist, yet well drained. Try mixing some perlite, charcoal and fine to medium coir peat pieces with the potting mix.
A fine pine park mix with some good organic material is also suitable.
Moisture is essential, and we prefer a permanent position in the garden to pot culture.
They do like sun, so bright filtered light, and some good morning sun is essential for flowering.
Water regularly when the plant is in active growth and cut back on watering during dormancy. A cool dry dormancy is needed for the plant to flower.
Other Arpophyllum species include :
- A. giganteum – Larger growing
- A. laxiflorum
- A. alpinum (syn. A. giganteum)
- A. jamaicense
Arpophyllum spicatum is available for sale from the following nurseries
P.O.Box 114 Bowraville NSW 2449 - phone: 02 65644088 fax: 02 65644088
Rare orchid species and select hybrids. African species. Bulbophyllums. Lycastes. Paphiopedilums. Dendrochilums. Gongoras. Aerangis. Stanhopea and much more.
www.darkstarorchids.com.au