Phragmipedium (abbreviated Phrag.) Incan Treasure is a primary hybrid with Phrag. kovachii and Phrag. longifolium. Phrag. kovachii has created quite a frenzy among orchid enthusiasts since it was discovered in 2001 in northern Peru. Its flower is an impressive showy pink to purple up to 8 inches wide and is the largest in the genus. It is currently considered a critically endangered species due to overcollection in the wild. Phrag. kovachii has a reputation of being rather difficult and slow to grow. Phrag. longifolium is found ranging from Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia and Ecuador. Phrag. longifolium blooms on erect inflorescences ranging from 2-3 feet. It is a sequential bloomer with 7 to 9 flowers opening in succession. The dorsal sepal and petals are medium green and heavily veined mahogany. The pouch is dark tan-brown to dark mahogany. The best traits of both parents are present in this amazing cross. The Phrag. kovachii contributes to the bright bold color and increased flower size. Phrag. longifolium contributes to the robust growth, ease of culture, and increased flower count. The phrag. longifolium parent gives this cross a long flowering period; it is a sequential bloomer that blooms and blooms, and it is common for mature plants to bloom for three months or more. Phrag. Incan Treasure is an excellent choice for beginners or someone new to phrags. Easily grown on a windowsill or under lights, sitting in a saucer of an inch or two of water. Flower color can vary with temperature; color will be darker if grown cooler. Note: it is normal for phrags to expel its flower when it is done blooming while the flower is still in good shape. As these plants are seedlings, each plant is unique and may differ from the photo.
PLEASE NOTE: Since this is a Seedling Population (not a Mericlone which produces exact duplicates), the picture is for illustration purposes only. No two plants will be the same from this cross, and they will flower in a range of possibilities coming from the two parents.