Christine de Beer - effortless floral craftsman
Prosthechea cochleata
Detail of my A spongy home for this octopus orchid design
Common name
Octopus orchid, Clam shell or Cockle Shell orchid, it is the national flower of Belize in Central America, where it is called the ‘Black Orchid’.
Origin
Central America, the West Indies, Colombia, Venezuela, and southern Florida
Varieties
There are various varieties cultivated. This Prosthechea cochleata is grown by orchid lovers around the world where the Prosthechea cochleata var. triandra is an endangered variety in the wild of Florida.
Colors
The orchid petals and sepals are lime green and the lip has maroon to purple. patterns and stripes and spots.
Vase life
4 days in good conditions. As a plant it can bloom for up to 6 months usually starting in spring
Scent
Slight floral scent
Uses
It is a small focal flower (no more that 8.75 cm) and not commonly available as a cut flower.
Conditioning
As you would Cattleya orchids. Do not refrigerate as the flowers can not tolerate cold. They are also sensitive to ethylene gas so keep away from fruits and vegetables. As a plant: Water and mist throughout the year. Less so when plants are not growing. Prefers light during the winter months and shade in the summer. Protect the buds against mealy bug infestation.
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