Enc. cordigera (formerly Epidendrum atropurpurea) is a spectacular species found in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, French Guiana, Surinam, Guyana, Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia and Peru as a medium sized, bifoliate. It is a hot to warm growing epiphyte at elevations up to 2,950 feet (900 m) with squat, round pseudobulbs, carrying 2 leaves that blooms in late spring (often around Mothers’ Day) on a 24-inch (60 cm) long inflorescence carrying many strongly fragrant honey to vanilla scented, heavily textured flowers. It is called Flor de la Semana Santa (Holy Week Flower) because this reliable bloomer is almost always in bloom for Easter. However, we have found that lately these can bloom as early as Christmas (likely due to climate change).
The 'Hinomaru' clone is really interesting as it has a white lip with a deep purple/magenta spot in the middle. This was awarded a Bronze Medal (BM) by the Japan Orchid Growers Association (JOGA). The clone ‘Sweet Fragrance’ was chosen for its amazing sweet fragrance. These seed-grown plants have tall sprays of relatively large, fantastic, fragrant flowers that are produced from compact, shiny, egg-shaped pseudobulbs.
Enc. cordigera is easy to grow and bloom. It likes open mixes that drain quickly. Grow in medium to bright light. These prefer to be repotted when new growths and fresh roots appear. Grow these plants alongside Cattleya as they require similar requirements. Grows well under lights or on a bright windowsill. Highly recommended for species collector and lovers of fragrant orchids. Great for beginners. Award quality.
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