Gongora leucochila x escobariana
Gongora leucochila × Gongora escobariana Orchid in in vitro culture – Lot of 15 plants minimum Origin and classification Horticultural hybrid: Cross between Gongora leucochila and Gongora escobariana. Objective: Combine the compactness and fragrant flowers of G. leucochila with the size and flower color of G. escobariana. Classification: Orchidaceae family, Epidendroideae subfamily, Stanhopeinae tribe. Characteristics of the parents Gongora leucochila Origin: Mexico, Panama (0–1,600 m). Appearance: Size: Small (20–30 cm), conical pseudobulbs (8 cm). Leaves: 2 leaves per pseudobulb, leathery. Flowers: White to pale green, lip spotted with purple, sweet and waxy fragrance (spring).
Culture: Temperature: Warm (20–30°C). Light: 20,000–30,000 lux (filtered). Humidity: 70–85%. Substrate: Hanging basket with coarse bark or mount.
Gongora escobariana Origin: Colombia. Appearance: Size: Medium (30–50 cm), conical pseudobulbs. Leaves: 2 leaves per pseudobulb, leathery. Flowers: Reddish-brown to purple, contrasting lip, light fragrance.
Culture: Temperature: Warm to intermediate (18–28°C). Light: 20,000–30,000 lux (filtered). Humidity: 70–85%.
Expected hybrid (Gongora leucochila × escobariana) Appearance: Size: Small to medium (25–40 cm), conical pseudobulbs. Leaves: 2 leaves per pseudobulb, leathery. Flowers: Color: White-green to reddish-brown, spotted or contrasting lip. Shape: Typical of Gongora ("shoe-shaped" lip). Fragrance: Sweet and waxy (inherited from G. leucochila).
Blooming: Spring–summer, in pendulous clusters. Duration: 1–2 weeks per flower (Gongora have an ephemeral blooming). Culture (for 15 in vitro plants) Temperature:
Day: 22–28°C. Night: 16–20°C (difference of 6–8°C). To avoid: <15°C or >32°C.
Humidity: 70–85% (essential).
Tip: Use a humidifier or a terrarium.
Light:
Intensity: 20,000–30,000 lux (filtered, no direct sun). Source: East/west window or horticultural LEDs.
Watering:
Growth: Every 2–3 days (let dry slightly). Rest: 1–2 times/week. Method: Misting or quick soaking (avoid stagnant water).
Substrate:
Hanging basket: Coarse bark (70%), perlite (20%), charcoal (10%). Mount: Cork plaque or fern, with a thin layer of sphagnum moss. Repotting: Every 2–3 years, in spring.
Fertilization:
Growth: Balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to ¼, every week. Rest: Every 2–3 weeks.
Tips for a successful culture Optimal blooming: Maintain high humidity and a temperature difference. Cultivate in a hanging basket for the pendulous inflorescences.
Common problems: Lack of flowers: Increase light or humidity. Rot: Substrate too wet → repot in a more draining mix.
Propagation: Division: Separate pseudobulbs (3–4 per division). Keikis: Rare, but possible on mature spikes.
Advantages of the hybrid Original flowers: Intermediate color and fragrance.
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