Stanhopea oculata

Introducing the Stanhopea oculata, a mesmerizing orchid species native to the lush landscapes of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and beyond. With its captivating beauty and unique growth habits, cultivating this exquisite orchid brings a touch of tropical elegance to any space.

Description: The Stanhopea oculata presents as a medium-sized orchid, exhibiting epiphytic or terrestrial tendencies. Its pseudobulbs, reaching sizes of up to 60 cm, boast an oblique ovoid shape. Adorning these pseudobulbs are single, apical leaves, elliptic or broadly lanceolate in form, measuring 27-70 cm long and 8-20 cm wide. The pièce de résistance, however, is its enchanting flowers. Showcasing a vanilla scent, these waxy blooms descend in a pendulous fashion from a 25 cm long inflorescence, with 5 to 9 flowers. Each flower measures 10-13 cm long and 10 cm wide, featuring a delightful blend of white, cream, or greenish-white hues, embellished with red, red-brown, and even purple spots.

Cultivation Tips:

Light: Stanhopea oculata thrives under filtered and dispersed light, with an optimal lux level ranging between 25000-35000. Avoid direct exposure to the sun during the afternoon hours to prevent leaf burn and yellowing. Ensure consistent, gentle air circulation for optimal growth.

Temperature: Maintain a thermophilic environment, with summer temperatures averaging 26-27°C during the day and 15-17°C at night. In spring, temperatures range from 26-27°C during the day to 13-16°C at night. Winter temperatures should hover around 22-24°C during the day and 12-13°C at night.

Humidity: Sustain humidity levels between 75-80% for most of the year, slightly decreasing to 65-70% during winter and early spring.

Substrate and Repotting: Consider cultivating Stanhopea oculata mounted on tree fern patches to mimic its natural habitat. Alternatively, wire baskets with moss-covered sphagnum moss and fast-draining soil can be utilized. Repot or divide only when new roots emerge to minimize stress.

Watering: During active growth, water generously, allowing roots to dry between watering sessions to prevent waterlogging. Reduce watering in autumn and post-flowering, gradually resuming as new growth appears in spring.

Fertilization: Feed weekly during active growth with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended orchid fertilizer dosage.

Rest Period: Limit watering in winter while ensuring occasional fogging to prevent excessive drying. Reduce or eliminate fertilization until new growth emerges in spring.

This is a blooming size in a 5" pot, newly repotted, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

With proper care and attention to its specific needs, the Stanhopea oculata graces your space with its exquisite blooms, enchanting fragrance, and tropical allure. Embark on a botanical journey and elevate your surroundings with the beauty of this stunning orchid species.