How to Grow Laelia Rubescens

Laelia rubescens is a typical Mexican laelia when it comes to cultural requirements. it is found over a wide geographical distribution and, although the plants do better in cooler conditions - winter nights near 50 f (10C) or even cooler - plants of the species are adaptable enough to allow cultivation both as companion plants to cymbidiums and other cool-growing orchids, but also along with intermediate growers like other cattleya alliance species.

The key to flowering success  is, as with all the other Mexican laelias, adequate light. These plants will thrive on approximately 50 percent sun during the hottest months and up to 75 percent during the rest of the year. it can take full sun in the early morning and late afternoon hours, but can also be successfully flowered under lights if placed close to the light source.
Laelia rubescen does best when grown mounted, reflecting its need for exceptional air movement and drainage.plants do better on cork or rough-barked tree branches than on tree-fern slabs because the roots dry out faster. Many plants also tend to grow upward over time, climbing out  of the pot and making pot culture more demanding. If plants mounted vertically dry out too quickly under your conditions an alternative is to mount with a raft. this involves hanging the mount horizontally, hooked at both ends rather than from only one. The advantage ti raft-mounting is that although plants have exceptional air movement and drainage, more water is held in the crevices of the substrate and dries more slowly.
Along with air movement and drainage comes the need for good humidity, especially during warm spells. If you can't provide this combination with mounted plants, try one on a pot. just remember that this species needs a definite dormant period during winter. Plants  grown in pots are susceptible to overwatering and loss of roots. This is another species that can be treated more or less like a succulent, allowing the potting mix to dry completely between watering.

Ron McHatton, PhD, COO and Director of Education, AOS.


If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask me, and I will reply as soon as possible.