Fringed Star Orchid (Epidendrum ciliare)

Fringed Star Orchid

Epidendrum ciliare

Fringed blooms glow like tiny starbursts, a delicate epiphytic orchid. Evergreen epiphyte; common name: Fringed Star Orchid.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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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 growing medium 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 cold stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, leathery oblong-lanceolate leaves growing from mature pseudobulbs
  • Flower: Star-shaped white to pale green blooms with a prominent fringed lower lip
  • Stem: Slender branching stems with fleshy pseudobulbs for water and nutrient storage
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep growing medium slightly moist; mist foliage to maintain 50-70% humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter during dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks; steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench to support blooming and pseudobulb health
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to new growth
  • Trim dead, yellowing leaves to improve airflow and reduce fungal risk
  • Thin overcrowded pseudobulbs every 2–3 years during repotting to encourage healthy growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects from ingestion or contact

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

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor or greenhouse display; popular in orchid collections