PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch and pseudobulb damage
Watering
Water when the growing medium is nearly dry; use room-temperature rainwater or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup on foliage
Temperature
Thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid temperatures below 15°C as it may cause pseudobulb rot and leaf drop
Characteristics
- Leaf: Single leathery, oblong leaf per pseudobulb; dark green, glossy texture
- Flower: Tongue-shaped, maroon to brownish-purple blooms with a musky, carrion-like scent
- Pseudobulbs: Small, rounded green to brown storage structures for water and nutrients
Care Guide
Watering
Keep medium slightly moist; mist foliage 2–3 times weekly to maintain 60–70% humidity
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy
Banana peel tea：Steep fully dried banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support pseudobulb and flower developmentPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to pseudobulb growth
- Trim yellowing leaves at the base to prevent fungal or bacterial growth
- Divide overcrowded pseudobulbs during repotting in early spring to promote healthy growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental epiphyte for indoor orchid collections
