Skinner's Guarianthe (Guarianthe skinneri)

Skinner's Guarianthe

Also known as: Flower of San Sebastian

Guarianthe skinneri is a species of orchid that is native to Central America and is the official national flower of Costa Rica. Like many other species of orchid, it is an epiphyte or lithophyte and only grows on rocks and other plants. It is one of the more popular species of orchid and is widely cultivated by hobbyists.

Scientific classification

Species

Skinner's Guarianthe (Guarianthe skinneri)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

White, Pink, Purple, Mauve

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Skinner's Guarianthe

Distribution of Skinner's Guarianthe

Distribution Map

Skinner's Guarianthe is naturally found in the humid forests of Central America, predominantly within the region extending from the southeastern part of North America to the northwestern part of South America. It has been successfully introduced and cultivated in other tropical and subtropical areas, reflecting its viability beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wet montane forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Skinner's Guarianthe

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Orchid Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Skinner's Guarianthe thrives in humid, tropical rainforest conditions and prefers frequent watering, ideally twice a week. As an evergreen often grown indoors, it requires consistent humidity to sustain its vibrant foliage, making it unsuitable for arid environments.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of skinner's Guarianthe, use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) bi-weekly during active growth, switching to a high phosphorus mix (10-30-20) in late winter. Apply diluted solutions at the root zone and adjust feeding frequency during cooler months to ensure healthy development and vibrant blooms.

Pruning: Skinner's Guarianthe features vibrant blooms and an epiphytic nature. Pruning should occur in early spring or late winter, focusing on dead canes and overcrowding for better air circulation. Light, regular pruning supports health and aesthetics, while avoiding heavy pruning to prevent stress on the plant.

Propagation: Skinner's Guarianthe benefits from division, necessitating separation of pseudobulbs with part of the rhizome. Pot divisions in well-draining orchid medium, ensuring consistent moisture and warmth for recovery. Best to divide skinner's Guarianthe during repotting to reduce stress.

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Images of Skinner's Guarianthe

Distribution of Skinner's Guarianthe

Care Guide for Skinner's Guarianthe

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