The Lion Orchid is a captivating and distinctive plant, known for its unique beauty. Its striking appearance makes it a desirable addition for many plant enthusiasts.
Understanding the Lion Orchid
The Lion Orchid, scientifically known as Maxillaria schunkeana, is a miniature epiphytic orchid. It is notable for its unusually dark flowers, among the darkest in the orchid family, often appearing black to the eye. These small blossoms, typically deep maroon to blackish-purple and measuring 0.35 to 1.2 cm, emerge from the base of the pseudobulbs.
This species forms compact clumps of short, conical pseudobulbs, each bearing a single, narrow, elliptic to lanceolate leaf. Native to the rainforests of southeastern Brazil, Maxillaria schunkeana grows as an epiphyte, clinging to moss-covered tree trunks or branches in humid, shaded understory environments at elevations typically between 600 and 850 meters.
Cultivating Your Lion Orchid
Light Requirements
The Lion Orchid thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural dappled sunlight habitat in the rainforest understory. An ideal light intensity for this plant is between 8000 and 22000 lux, or around 2500-3500 footcandles. Placing it where it receives moderate light, such as near an east-facing window or a shaded south-facing window, is often suitable. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may result in slower growth and potentially fewer blooms.
Watering Needs
Water the Lion Orchid when its potting medium is almost dry to the touch, but do not let it dry out completely. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot. During periods of active growth, the plant will require more frequent watering, but this should be reduced if the plant enters a dormant phase.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity (70-90%) is ideal for the Lion Orchid. While 50-65% is acceptable in a home, higher levels are preferred, especially if grown mounted. Methods to increase humidity include using humidity trays or a room humidifier. This orchid prefers intermediate to warm temperatures, with daytime highs around 20-28°C (68-82°F) and nighttime lows between 14-18°C (57-64°F). It can tolerate a wider range of temperatures, from 9°C to 22°C, but consistent temperatures within the preferred range promote healthy growth and blooming.
Potting and Media
The Lion Orchid grows well in a fine-grade epiphytic mix that provides good drainage and aeration. Suitable media include orchid bark mix, sphagnum moss, charcoal, and perlite. Sphagnum moss is often recommended for its moisture-retentive properties while still allowing air circulation around the roots. Repotting is generally best done in early spring when new growth appears, allowing new roots to establish quickly in the fresh medium. This plant can also be successfully grown mounted on cork, especially in high-humidity environments.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization supports the Lion Orchid’s growth and blooming. During periods of active growth, a dilute balanced orchid fertilizer can be applied monthly. Some growers suggest using a high nitrogen fertilizer in spring and summer, transitioning to a high phosphorus fertilizer in summer to support blooming. Diluting the fertilizer to about one-quarter strength is a common practice to prevent root burn. Water the plant before fertilizing to protect sensitive root tips.
Propagation and Blooming
Propagation of the Lion Orchid is primarily achieved through division of its pseudobulbs. Ensure each new section has at least three pseudobulbs attached to sustain growth and encourage new development. After division, pot sections in a suitable orchid medium, maintaining high humidity and indirect light to aid establishment.
The Lion Orchid can bloom sporadically throughout the year, most often in warmer seasons. Typically, blooming occurs in the fall, winter, or spring, and established plants can flower multiple times annually. Proper care, including adequate light and a slight difference between day and night temperatures, helps encourage a robust flowering cycle.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Overwatering is a frequent issue, leading to root rot, which manifests as brown or yellowing, crumbling roots. Ensuring the potting medium dries slightly between waterings and providing good drainage can prevent this. Yellowing leaves or stunted growth can also indicate insufficient light, prompting a need to adjust the plant’s placement to a brighter, indirect light source.
Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can sometimes affect orchids. These sap-sucking insects can cause damage to leaves and new growths. Regular inspection of the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, helps in early detection. Basic treatments for these pests often involve wiping them away or using insecticidal soaps.
Fungal and bacterial diseases, such as leaf spot or botrytis petal blight, can also occur, particularly in overly moist or humid conditions with poor air circulation. Symptoms include dark spots on leaves or flowers. Removing affected parts and improving air circulation are initial steps for management. Maintaining proper cultural conditions is the best preventative measure against most common issues.