Ceratocentron fesselii

Ceratocentron fesselii is a rare miniature orchid native to the highlands of Luzon Island in the Philippines. With its bright orange flowers and compact growth, it requires specific care conditions, including high humidity, bright indirect light, and a well-draining substrate. Due to its specialized habitat needs, it is best suited for cultivation in controlled environments such as terrariums or vivariums.

Features:

• Size: Miniature epiphytic orchid, typically growing to about 2.5–4 cm in height.

• Leaves: Leathery, dark green, elliptic to obtuse, clasping the stem, and measuring approximately 1–2.5 cm long.

• Inflorescence: Short, axillary, erect, 1–1.5 cm long, bearing 2–5 flowers per inflorescence.

• Flowers: Bright orange, about 1–1.5 cm in size, with a reddish, short-spurred lip.

• Growth Habit: Monopodial, with each new growth producing numerous leathery leaves.

• Native Habitat: Endemic to the Philippines, specifically in the mountain ranges of Nueva Ecija and Nueva Vizcaya on Luzon Island, at elevations of 1,000–1,200 meters.

Care Tips:

• Light:

  • Provide bright, indirect light.

  • Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours.

  • Ideal light levels range from 20,000–30,000 lux.

• Temperature:

  • Maintain daytime temperatures between 24–27°C (75–81°F) and nighttime temperatures around 18–19°C (64–66°F).

  • In winter, daytime temperatures should be 25–26°C (77–79°F), with nighttime temperatures around 16–17°C (61–63°F).

• Humidity:

  • High humidity is crucial; aim for levels between 85–90%.

  • Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

• Watering:

  • During the growing season (April–November), water abundantly 1–2 times daily.

  • In winter, reduce watering to once daily, with thorough misting every 5 days.

  • If leaves show signs of wrinkling, increase watering frequency.

• Fertilization:

  • Apply a diluted orchid fertilizer (1/4 to 1/5 strength) every 7 days during the growing period.

  • Suspend fertilization in winter.

• Mounting:

  • Best grown mounted on cork or tree fern slabs to mimic its natural epiphytic habitat.

  • Avoid placing sphagnum moss directly under or above the roots; if grown in dry conditions, a thin layer of sphagnum can help retain moisture.

• Repotting:

  • Repot or remount every 2–3 years, preferably at the end of winter when new growth begins.

  • Use a coarse, well-draining mix to ensure good root aeration.