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Lycaste x Smeeana

€33.00Price
Quantity
Expected availability: end of June
Lycaste × Smeeana
(Epiphytic/terrestrial hybrid orchid, lot of 15 in vitro plants)


1. Identification and Origin


     
 
  • Scientific name: Lycaste × Smeeana (hybrid between Lycaste skinneri and Lycaste deppei).
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  • Origin: Horticultural hybrid, parent species are native to Central America (Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico).
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  • Natural habitat: Cultivated under controlled conditions, inspired by the shaded and humid habitats of the parent species.
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2. Appearance


     
 
  • Size: Compact to medium plant, 25–40 cm in height.
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  • Pseudobulbs: Oval, slightly flattened, light green to yellowish, 6–10 cm long.
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  • Leaves: Plicate (folded), leathery, dark green, 15–30 cm long.
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  • Flowers: Large (10–15 cm in diameter), often pink, purple, or white with a lip marked by darker spots. Light and pleasant fragrance.
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  • Blooming: Mainly in spring or early summer.
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3. Cultivation Conditions (Lot of 15 in vitro plants)


Temperature


     
 
  • Day: 18–24°C.
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  • Night: 12–15°C (day/night drop promotes blooming).
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  • To avoid: <10°C or >28°C.
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Humidity


     
 
  • Ideal rate: 65–80%.
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  • Tip: Maintain high ambient humidity, especially during active growth. Use a misting system for the in vitro plantlets.
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Light


     
 
  • Intensity: Filtered light (10,000–15,000 lux), such as an east window or under greenhouse shading.
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  • To avoid: Direct sunlight, especially in summer.
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Watering


     
 
  • In vitro: Keep the medium slightly moist, avoid standing water.
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  • Post-deflasking / Post-transplanting: Regular watering to keep the substrate moist, but without excess.
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Fertilizer


     
 
  • In vitro: Diluted nutrient solution (1/4 dose) every 2 weeks.
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  • Post-deflasking / Post-transplanting: Orchid fertilizer (1/2 dose) during active growth.
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Ventilation


     
 
  • In vitro: Light air circulation to prevent mold.
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  • Acclimation: Gradually increase ventilation after transplanting.
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Substrate


     
 
  • In vitro: Sterile agar-agar gel medium with tailored nutrients.
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  • Post-deflasking / Post-transplanting: Fine bark + perlite + charcoal for good drainage.
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Repotting


     
 
  • Ideal period: After 6–12 months in vitro, when roots reach 3–5 cm.
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  • Substrate: Draining mix (fine bark, perlite, charcoal).
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