Description
Maxillaria –
There are 250 to 700 species of evergreen, rhizomatous epiphytic or terrestrial orchids in this genus. They occur from tropical and subtropical Central and South America, from sea level to over 10,000′, sometimes in cloud forest. Solitary or clustered, usually laterally compressed, ovoid to spherical, sometimes oblong pseudobulbs produces 1 or 2 thin to leathery, grass-like or broadly oblong, usually mid green leaves. Flowers have 3 large spreading sepal that dominate each flower, the 2 petals and labellum usually smaller and directed forward in a range of colors. They range from white to dark red or yellow, and usually appear intermittently throughout summer.
Cool to intermediate growing orchids (see chart below). Grow in epiphytic orchid potting mix in pots or slatted baskets, or epiphytically on slabs of bark. In summer, grow in moist partial shade, water freely, feed at every third watering, and mist once or twice daily. Admit full light in winter, keep moist throughout the year.
Prone to spider mites, aphids, and mealy bugs.
