This is the rare yellow color form of the famous coconut orchid, Maxillaria (abbrev. Max.) tenuifolia, known for its coconut-like fragrance reminiscent of the Coppertone® suntan lotion. The standard form of the species has red flowers. These plants come from divisions of the mother plant, so they are true to type. The yellow form blooms later in the season than the standard red form and lasts even longer. The plants are more compact growing. We grow them outdoors year round in southern CA. Can be grown outdoors in areas where winters are mild and frost free, with temperatures above 50° F. In other climates, they grow best outdoors during the summer months and moved indoors during the winter months.
While plants remain compact, it quickly grows into a specimen. The grass-like foliage is attractive even when not in flower. Being a widely distributed species, it is adaptable to a broad range of growing conditions. The best temperature range for cultivation is warm to intermediate, providing temperatures no lower than 50° F (10° C) day or night. This plant is very adaptable and can be grown in a pot, hanging basket, or mounted. Max. tenufolia is easy to grow and quite forgiving of wide range of growing conditions. The main consideration is the avoidance of stale or soggy media (i.e., wet feet). It can be grown it in all sorts of media including osmunda, fir bark, coconut husk fiber or chunks and of course, fir bark mixes as long as the media is well draining. Plants should be kept moist but not soggy wet. Fertilize along with your other orchids every week or two using a half strength solution of balanced fertilizer. Max. tenuifolia enjoy high humidity levels, between 50-80%. Light tolerance is broad for this species and it can be grown in bright conditions with Cattleya or novelty Phals on a windowsill or under lights. Lower light conditions will produce long whip-like foliage and a more straggly plant as it reaches for the light. Should your plant not flower, give it more light. Flowering season is May - June and flowers last for ten days or longer if kept cool. Whether red or yellow, Max. tenuifolia is one of those orchids that belongs in every collection. An excellent beginner plant. Highly recommended. A “must have” for those seeking an easy to grow fragrant orchid.
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