With the common name of pansy orchids, Miltoniopsis are often mistaken for Miltonia, however a difference does exist.
Its all about the pseudobulb and where the leaves grow from. So at the top of the pseudobulb, Miltoniopsis have one leaf, Miltomia have two.
That is not the only difference, however its enough to give them a different name. They require different temperatures and different humidity
Care
These are an orchid that like medium to low filtered light, they like medium humidity and good air circulation.
Generally grown in mixture of finely pulverised orchid bark along with perlite for drainage, any similar mix will suit.
They do not like nighttime temperatures lower than 10c (50f) and at this extreme prefer to be a little on the dry side. 15c (60f) is a more suitable minimum.
A daytime max of 27c (80f) is ideal.
So if you can control the temperature, these are a wonderful, and reasonably easy care orchid.
Detailed Information for Miltoniopsis
- Watering
The root system is very fine and needs to be get moist at all times, however never wet and soggy. - Lighting
Good filtered light, no direct sun. - Temperatures
Night no lower than 10c (50f) – Daytime max of 27c (80f). – Miltanopsis are cooler going than Miltonia however they do not like cold temperatures. Aim for a temperature below 26 – 27 C, this is crucial for flowering.
At the same time temperature should not drop below 10 – 13C (50 – 55f).This temperature range makes them ideal plants for growing indoors. - Humidity
Medium – Aim for around 65 -70 percent humidity. Low humidity will place the plants out of their comfort zone, to much humidity can cause fungal problems. - Growing Medium
Fine orchid bark that drains well yet retains some moisture.
A tree fern mount works well, however going in small pots with a confined root space is easier.
These are orchids with a fine root system, so a free draining mix is essential. A fine to medium pine bark with perlite, sphagnum moss and charcoal or biochar will work well.
3 parts bark with 1 part mix of perlite, sphagnum moss and charcoal is an example.
Miltoniopsis Crimson Cascade is a hybrid, a beautiful waterfall pattern on flowers that will last for 5 – 8 weeks.