Christmas island urchin orchid (Bryobium retusum)

Christmas island urchin orchid

Christmas Island urchin orchid was named after Christmas Island, where it was first discovered. Not the most attractive orchid, christmas island urchin orchid produces hairy green flowers that only live a short time before self-pollinating and falling off. It also makes little "pseudobulbs," small sacks that store nutrients but look like little bulbs.

Scientific classification

Species

Christmas island urchin orchid (Bryobium retusum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

7 mm to 1 cm

Spread

White

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Christmas island urchin orchid

Distribution of Christmas island urchin orchid

Distribution Map

Christmas island urchin orchid is naturally endemic to Southeast Asia's tropical regions. This plant has also been cultivated beyond its native range, suggesting its presence in both tropical and possibly subtropical areas in other parts of the world, facilitated by human cultivation for various purposes.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rainforest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Christmas island urchin orchid

Twice per week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Orchid Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Originating from tropical rainforests, christmas island urchin orchid thrives in high humidity and requires consistent moisture. Water twice a week while tolerating short dryness. As an epiphytic orchid, increased ambient humidity via misting or pebble trays is essential, particularly during active growth for optimal health.

Fertilize: For christmas island urchin orchid, use a high-phosphorus fertilizer bi-weekly during active growth, applying a quarter-strength solution. In dormancy, reduce feeding to once monthly. Careful application at the base is essential, avoiding leaves. Adjust feeding based on christmas island urchin orchid's response, prioritizing its unique nutritional needs.

Pruning: Christmas island urchin orchid features distinctive round-shaped flowers and benefits from proper pruning, ideally conducted in late winter to early spring. Remove dead stems and thin overcrowding for better airflow, while avoiding over-pruning to maintain blooms. Regular pruning fosters healthier growth and enhances aesthetics.

Propagation: The orchid christmas island urchin orchid is best propagated through division, ensuring each pseudobulb section has roots. After division, place segments in a well-aerated, moisture-retaining medium to replicate christmas island urchin orchid's natural habitat. This method fosters healthy growth and enhances the plant's resilience and beauty.

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