Zygopetalum (abbreviated Zygo.) Advance Australia 'HOF' AM/AOS is a very popular famous awarded hybrid. This remarkable clone is free-flowering and often blooms twice per year. It is very compact and vigorous, and has warmth tolerance. The plant produces multiple strong self-supporting erect inflorescences per pseudobulb held gracefully above the leaves. Each inflorescence carries 6—8, 2 to 3-inch, long-lasting flowers that last up to 3 months. It is one of the most fragrant Zygopetalums, having a spicy fragrance. We just love the eye-catching contrasting dark blue lip.
Zygopetalum require humid conditions with good air circulation under moderate shade with plenty of water during the growing season, less after new pseudobulbs are fully formed. Grow in bright, indirect light with strong air circulation and roughly 50% humidity. Any medium that is free draining such as a mixture of fine bark, charcoal, and perlite will work well. We prefer to grow these in sphagnum moss. Plants potted in a porous, well-draining mix will require more frequent watering than those potted in sphagnum moss. Water generously when plants are actively growing in spring and summer, and reduce water during the cooler months. Plants should not dry out completely.
Zygopetalum will respond best if divided and repotted when the new growths are stretching upward. They are quite succulent and should be divided only when necessary, with care as pseudobulbs are easily damaged or even broken. The roots are brittle and expect to break most of them in dividing so the divisions need a bit of babying along to become re-established.
Inconsistent watering, dry conditions, or low humidity can result in the leaves becoming pleated like an accordion, a condition that is not reversible. You can grow these plants on a windowsill or under lights in your home without them taking over the entire space. Can be grown outdoors in areas where winters are frost free and even in South Florida if protected from extreme heat. Rarely found in the marketplace. Highly recommended.
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