Broughtonia – orchid

Description

Broughtonia – There are about 5 species of evergreen, epiphytic orchids, in this genus. They occur from Jamaica and Cuba, where they grow from sea level to 3,600′ feet high. They have 2 semi rigid, narrowly oblong, dark green leaves, very short rhizomes, and tightly clustered and flattened-spherical to cylindrical pseudobulbs. In summer, racemes of brilliant crimson flowers are borne on long stems from the base of the leaves. Cool to intermediate growing orchids (see chart below). Grow in epiphytic orchid potting mix in a small container or epiphytically on a bark slab. In summer provide moist conditions in bright filtered light, and water freely when in active growth, applying fertilizer at every third watering. Keep almost dry in winter. Divide when fills containers. Prone to spider mites. aphids, mealy bugs, and cymbidium mosaic virus.