The Procatavola Key Lime Stars is an orchid hybrid, registered in 2019, known for its vibrant color, pleasant fragrance, and straightforward care.
Growing Conditions
Light
This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. An east-facing window provides ideal morning sun, or a shaded south or west window can work if light is filtered. Too much direct sun can redden leaves, indicating overexposure, while insufficient light hinders blooming.
Watering
Allow the potting medium to become nearly dry between waterings, then water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Avoid overwatering; do not let the plant sit in standing water. During cooler, less active growth periods in winter, reduce watering frequency. Using filtered water or rainwater is beneficial.
Temperature and Humidity
Procatavola Key Lime Stars prefers intermediate to warm conditions, with daytime temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. A night temperature drop of 10°F to 15°F is beneficial, ideally above 55°F. Moderate to high humidity (50-70%) supports healthy growth. Maintain humidity with a humidity tray or room humidifier. Good air circulation prevents fungal issues, especially with higher humidity.
Potting Media and Repotting
A well-draining, open mix ensures proper aeration and prevents root rot. Suitable potting media include fine to medium bark chips, often with perlite or charcoal. Sphagnum moss can be used, but requires careful watering to avoid excessive moisture. Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the media breaks down, ideally after blooming.
Fertilization
During active growth (spring and summer), fertilize every two to four weeks. Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or suspend fertilization during cooler, less active months. Flush the pot with clear water monthly to prevent salt buildup.
Blooming and Fragrance
The Procatavola Key Lime Stars produces striking, star-shaped flowers, typically about 4 inches across. Sepals and petals are bright, clear lime green, often waxy. The prominent lip (labellum) is usually pale yellow-green, transitioning to a vibrant lime-green throat with possible burgundy markings.
It has a distinct citrusy fragrance, more noticeable in the evening. The scent is inherited from its parentage, particularly Brassavola nodosa. It can be a free bloomer, with flowers lasting four to six weeks, producing multiple flushes throughout the year under optimal conditions.
Common Challenges
Common issues with Procatavola Key Lime Stars include:
Insufficient light is a frequent cause of blooming failure, as bright, indirect light is necessary for flower initiation. Incorrect temperature fluctuations (especially lack of a cool night drop) or inconsistent feeding also contribute to blooming issues.
Leaf problems signal underlying issues. Yellowing leaves indicate excessive light or overwatering. Brown tips suggest low humidity or fertilizer salt buildup. Shriveled leaves, despite regular watering, point to underwatering or compromised roots.
Common orchid pests like mealybugs, scale, and spider mites can affect these plants. Regular inspection helps in early identification. Treatment often involves horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, applied per product instructions.
Root rot is common, caused by overwatering or poorly draining media. Signs include mushy, dark roots; the plant may appear wilted despite wet media. Address root rot by removing affected roots, repotting in fresh, well-draining media, and adjusting watering to allow media to dry slightly between applications.