Grown by: Bryon Rinke Photographer: Karl Siegler
Oeceoclades calcarata
Pronunciation: ee-see-o-CLA-deez cal-CAR-ata
Comprised of 31 species, the genus Oeceoclades ranges from the tropical regions of South America, through the West Indies, and into Florida in the western hemisphere. In the eastern hemisphere, the genus is indigenous to tropical Africa, and Madagascar.
Commonly called the Spurred Oeceoclades, Oeceoclades calcarata grows as an epiphyte in the moss and lichen forest regions of Madagascar. Growing at elevations of 1000 – 2000 meters (3280 – 6560 feet), Oeceoclades calcarata is considered a hot to cool grower.
In cultivation, Oeceoclades calcarata plants require intermediate conditions with minimal temperatures of 15° - 18° C (59° - 64° F). After the plant completes its active growth period, minimal watering is required.
References:
Pridgeon, Alec. (1999). The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Orchids. Timberline Press, Portland OR.
Pfahl, J. (2006). Internet Orchid Species Encyclopedia from http://www.orchidspecies.com/oeceocacarata.htm