Dear Orchid Friends:
December took me to Costa Rica and much to my delight, I was able to see many orchids, both native and non-native orchids in various settings. Coelgyne mossiae was in bloom and this orchid is a beauty. Coelgyne mossiae is a crisp white orchid - refreshingly clear white. The Coelgyne genus contains well over a hundred different species and have a varied growing climate. Coelgyne mossiae is a cooler climate orchid; this orchid was growing at 3500 ft. elevation.
Coelgyne mossiae is a smaller, cool growing epiphyte with oblong shaped, ridged pseudobulbs. Two thick leaves are produced from the top of each pseudobulb. This orchid does well in potting mediums offering good drainage and aeration. These orchids can be grown in pots, handing baskets or mounted on trees or bark. These particular orchids were growing in hanging sphagnum moss baskets. Coelgyne mossiae need space to grow as they do not like to be disturbed or repotted too often, so use a pot that is large enough to accommodate several growing seasons.
Water: Coelgyne mossiae requires copious amounts of water during their growing season and like to be on the dry side during periods when not in active growth. Coelgyne mossiae does well in Costa Rica - the rainy season was just ending and heading into the dry season. In the dry season, skies are clearer and sunnier. These orchids like higher humidity, which is perfect in Costa Rica at this elevation.
Light: Coelgyne mossiae likes moderate shade with periods of sun during their dry season. Fog and mist in the wet season are ideal.
Flowers: Flowers are pure white and petals and sepals are elliptical shaped and distinctly separated. Note the delicate curvature of the petals and the interesting star shape of the flower. The protruding lip is somewhat trumpet shaped and has long side lobes. The lovely yellow markings and striations on the lip add extra pizzazz to the flower. Coelgyne mossiae bears 102- individual flowers on an arching inflorescence. Flower stems form from the base of the pseudobulb and flowers are fragrant.
Coelgyne mossiae is a gem and the beautiful pure whiteness of the flower is an eye catching delight.
Until next time and best wishes for the new year,
vivi
