spider orchid

Also known as: Information to be completed

A medium to large-sized epiphytic orchid, with elliptic, dark green leaves up to 40cm long. Pseudobulbs are oval shaped, partially covered with green, leafed sheaths. In spring, produces 40cm long, arching flowering stem, carrying 7-11 flowers. Each flower is approximately 5cm large, with thin and slender petals and sepals. Flowers are yellow or green, with red-purple spots. The distinct shape of flowers has evolved to mimic spiders to attract wasp species conducive to successful pollination.

Scientific classification

Species: spider orchid (Brassia cochleata)
Genus: Brassia
Family: Orchidaceae

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Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse · Houseplants
Plant type: 0.1-0.5 metres
Height: 0.5-1 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Clump forming
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

spider orchid pictures

Distribution of spider orchid

Distribution map

N and Eastern Southern America

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of spider orchid

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spider orchid care guide

Mist roots regularly, keep orchid bark slightly damp not waterlogged
Watering: Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Mist roots regularly, keep orchid bark slightly damp not waterlogged

Fertilizing

Highly diluted orchid feed biweekly during warm active growth months

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.

Growing

Grow in an open bark-based orchid compost with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Provide enough bright filtered light, but keep away from direct sunlight or a heating source. Ideal temperatures are around 15°C minimum at night and up to maximum 25 °C during day. Water regularly, when the pot feels light when lifted. Ensure that all water drains away, preventing the plant sitting wet. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months. The orchid will naturally produce aerial roots, growing outside of the pot. As with many orchids, they grow best when well-established and slightly pot-bound. Re-potting should be only done if the plant overgrows its container or before the potting mix starts to deteriorate - approximately once in 2-3 years.

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