Fringed Star Orchid (Coilostylis ciliaris)

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch and pseudobulb damage

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Watering Water thoroughly when the orchid bark mix dries completely; avoid standing water to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid temperatures below 12°C to prevent stress

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Leaf: Thick, leathery, linear to lanceolate leaves up to 20 cm long, arranged in a fan shape.
Flower: Fragrant white to pale yellow star-shaped blooms with fringed lip margins; up to 2 cm across.
Stem: Slender pseudobulbs with short, upright growth habit.

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Watering

Keep growing medium evenly moist; mist foliage 2–3 times weekly to maintain 50–70% humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization during late autumn and winter dormancy to avoid nutrient buildup

Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent mold growth

Pruning

Remove spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to new pseudobulb growth
Trim dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and improve airflow
Repot every 2–3 years in spring to refresh growing medium and prevent overcrowding of pseudobulbs

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity from ingestion

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor orchid valued for fragrant nighttime blooms