Description
Lycaste –
There are about 45 species of deciduous, epiphytic or terrestrial orchids in this genus. They occur in cloud forest at altitude of 2,000-7,700′ feet high from Mexico to Peru and the West Indies. They produce robust, ovoid or ellipsoid, compressed pseudobulbs, and number of broad, lance shaped to oblong-elliptic, often soft, folded, light green leaves. They bear large waxy, fragrant flowers, in a large range of colors are held singly or occasionally 2 together on leafless stem from the bases, more or less triangular in shape, with contrasting sepals framing the smaller, cupped petal and 3 lobed lips.
Cool to intermediate growing orchids (see chart below). Grow in containers of crushed bark or soilless potting mix, or grow epiphytically on bark slabs. In summer, provide high humidity and water freely, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at every third watering. In winter, provide bright filtered light and keep dry.
Prone to spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs.
