Coelogyne

Special features and tips for Coelogyne orchids

Elegant - sometimes dainty and sometimes large-flowered, Coelogyne are the coveted collector's orchid. Most species are white or at least light-flowered. The origin of the approximately 200 species origin extends across the entire Pacific region, the Himalayas and South-East Asia. Due to the wide distribution this genus must be divided into three groups if you want to determine its requirements. Group 1: around Coelogyne speciosa, group 2: around Coelogyne massangeana and group 3: around Coelogyne cristata.

The orchids of the genus Coelogyne are known for several remarkable characteristics that make them special:
1. variety of flowers: Coelogyne orchids offer an impressive variety of flower shapes and colours. The flowers can be white, yellow, green or brown and often with eye-catching lips that are strikingly patterned or coloured. This variety makes them very attractive to orchid lovers.
2. fragrance: Many Coelogyne species are known for their pleasant fragrance. The scent varies per species, but it is often sweet and floral, which makes them even more attractive.
3rd flowering period: Coelogyne orchids often have a long flowering period. Some species can flower for several months, making them a long-lasting ornamental in any room.
4. growth habits: These orchids have interesting growth habits. Many Coelogyne species grow epiphytically (on trees), lithophytically (on rocks) or terrestrially (in the soil), which gives them great adaptability to different growing conditions.
5. inflorescences: Coelogyne orchids often have impressive inflorescences that bear many flowers. These inflorescences can be drooping or upright and are often very showy and decorative.
6. ease of care: Many Coelogyne species are relatively easy to care for and adaptable. They can thrive indoors under the right conditions, making them popular houseplants.

Special care instructions for Coelogyne orchids (hollow stendulas):

All three groups like light all year round. However, fertiliser should only be applied every 14 days during the growth phase in the lighter months of the year. Group 1 should be kept evenly moist and warm (20 - 25 °C). Group 2 should be cultivated at a temperature of 15 - 20 °C and kept more moist, especially in summer. Group 3 likes it as cool as possible and only moist in summer. In winter you should hardly water at all without causing the bulbs to shrivel excessively.

1st light: Coelogyne orchids prefer bright, indirect light. A position near an east or west-facing window is ideal. Some species can also tolerate more direct sunlight, especially morning or evening sun.
2. temperature: These orchids thrive in moderate temperatures. During the day, temperatures should be between 18-24°C, while night temperatures may drop to 12-18°C. Some species also tolerate cooler temperatures better than others.
3. watering: Coelogyne orchids should be kept evenly moist without soaking the substrate. Water the plant when the substrate is slightly dry and ensure good drainage.
4 Humidity: A high humidity of 50-70% is ideal. In drier environments, a humidifier or regular spraying of the plant can be helpful.
5. fertilisation: Use a special orchid fertiliser and fertilise the plant every fortnight during the growing season (spring and summer). In autumn and winter, fertilisation can be reduced to once a month.
6 Substrate: Use a well-drained orchid substrate, which can consist of coarse bark, perlite and some sphagnum moss. Some species also prefer a substrate with a little more moisture retention, such as coconut fibres or peat.
7 Repotting: Coelogyne orchids should be repotted every two to three years or when the substrate starts to decompose. The best time to repot is in spring, before active growth begins.

By following these care tips and knowing the special characteristics of Coelogyne orchids, you can optimally care for and enjoy these fascinating plants.