Gastrochilus formosanus

Gastrochilus formosanus is a miniature epiphytic orchid native to Taiwan and parts of mainland China, including Shaanxi, Fujian, and Hubei provinces. This species thrives at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 meters above sea level, typically growing on tree trunks in forests.

Features:

• Size: Compact, with rambling, branching stems that are freely rooting.

• Leaves: Small, leathery, and evergreen, arranged in two ranks along the stems.

• Flowers: Bright yellow, approximately 1.25 cm in size, spotted with red. The lip is pouch-shaped, white with red spots, and the flowers are fragrant.

• Blooming Season: Typically flowers in winter and spring.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright to shaded conditions; ideal light intensity is between 2,000 to 3,000 foot-candles (bright indirect light with strong shadowing).

• Temperature: Thrives in intermediate temperatures, with a minimum of 55°F (13°C) and a maximum of 85°F (29°C).

• Watering: Requires moist conditions; water 3–5 times per week, allowing the medium to dry slightly between waterings.

• Mounting: Often grown on mounts; blooming-size plants are available for cultivation.