Laelia pumila

Introducing the Enchanting Laelia Pumila - Your Pocket-Sized Garden Jewel!

Are you ready to add a touch of charm and elegance to your plant collection? Look no further than the Laelia Pumila, a captivating dwarf orchid species that's as adorable as it is easy to cultivate. With its dainty yet striking flowers that often outshine the plant itself, the Laelia Pumila is the perfect addition to any indoor garden or orchid enthusiast's collection.

Cultivation Tips:

Light and Humidity: The Laelia pumila thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it in a location where it receives ample sunshine without direct midday sun, as this can cause sunburn. Adequate air circulation is essential for these beauties. Moreover, maintain high humidity levels, as they are native to regions with humid forests and swampy areas. Keep the humidity between 80-85% if possible.

Watering: During the active growth period, which typically occurs in spring and summer, water your Laelia pumila generously. However, it's crucial to ensure that the roots dry out rapidly after each watering. In the cooler months, mimic the natural environment by reducing watering, as plants receive less rain during this time. Allow the medium to dry between waterings, preventing the roots from sitting in excess moisture.

Growing Medium: To create a suitable growing environment for your Laelia pumila, consider mounting the plants or potting them in a medium that offers excellent drainage. Options include mid-large aggregate Cattleya mix, tree fern chunks, or even wine corks. Choose a medium that allows for proper aeration and rapid drying of the roots.

Temperature: Laelia pumila is remarkably tolerant of a wide temperature range. They can withstand short periods of near-freezing temperatures as well as hot and tropical conditions. In their natural habitat in Brazil, they experience summer days averaging 78-81°F (26-27°C) and winter days averaging 72-74°F (22-23°C). This suggests that they appreciate intermediate conditions in cultivation.

Fertilization: Feed your Laelia pumila with a 1/4 to 1/2 strength fertilizer weekly during their active growth phases. In spring and mid-summer, opt for a high-nitrogen fertilizer, while late summer and autumn call for a phosphate-rich fertilizer.

Rest Period: During the winter months, reduce watering as rainfall diminishes in the natural habitat. Allow the plants to dry out between waterings, but don't let them remain completely dry for extended periods. Occasional misting between infrequent waterings helps maintain the right moisture levels.

Miscellaneous Notes: Although Laelia pumila typically blooms in the summer, they might surprise you with flowers at other times as well. Keep an eye out for these lovely blooms, which are usually 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) across, but can reach up to 5 inches (13 cm). Their colors vary from rosy purple to lavender, and you might even discover some with white, blue, or rosy pink hues. The fragrant blossoms are truly a sight to behold.

This is a blooming size in a 4 " clay pot, newly repotted, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

Don't miss the chance to invite the enchanting Laelia pumila into your indoor garden. Its petite size, easy care requirements, and mesmerizing flowers make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced orchid enthusiasts. Discover the beauty of Brazil's natural charm with this captivating orchid species!