PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers bright, indirect light; direct midday sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light prevents blooming.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top half of the potting medium (usually bark) dries out. Ensure excellent drainage.
Temperature
Thrives in warm daytime temperatures with a slight drop at night to encourage blooming.
Characteristics
- Leaves: Long, strap-like, medium green, reaching up to 40 cm, emerging from the base and apex of pseudobulbs;
- Flowers: Borne on long, arching panicles up to 90 cm; numerous small blooms with dark burgundy-red sepals and petals, and a white to cream lip marked with pink or red; emits a strong chocolate-vanilla fragrance;
- Pseudobulbs: Oval, laterally compressed, light green, serving as water and nutrient storage organs;
- Roots: Fine, white epiphytic roots adapted to grasp bark and absorb moisture from the air.
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly once a week, allowing water to flush through the drainage holes.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength weekly.. Flush the pot with plain water once a month to remove accumulated fertilizer salts.
Banana Peel Tea：Soak chopped banana peels in water for 24-48 hours, strain, and dilute 1:1 with water. Apply to the bark medium to encourage blooming. Avoid leaving raw peels in the pot to prevent mold and fungus gnats.Pruning
- Cut spent flower spikes down to the base of the pseudobulb using sterilized shears;
- Remove completely yellowed or dried leaves gently by pulling them away from the base;
- Do not remove old, leafless pseudobulbs unless they are completely brown and mushy, as they still store energy for the plant.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA.
Humans: Non-toxic to humans.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Highly prized in Western orchid collections and frequently gifted on Valentine's Day due to its distinct chocolate and vanilla aroma.
Usage: Cultivated primarily as an indoor ornamental plant for its spectacular, fragrant floral displays.