Oncidium Alliance - Trichopilia suavis

Introducing Trichopilia suavis - The Soft Trichopilia with Incredible Fragrant Flowers!

Trichopilia suavis is a rare and captivating orchid species originating from the lush landscapes of South America. Its stunning white fragrant flowers, adorned with eye-catching red spotted lips, make it a true gem for any orchid enthusiast's collection. With its compact size, this medium-sized epiphytic beauty will captivate you with its elegance and charm. 

The species name refers to the ‘sweet smelling’ floral fragrance. Clusters of pink and white flowers emerge in the late spring and carry the scent of fresh cut roses. Heavenly! 

Cultivation Tips:

1. Light: Provide Trichopilia suavis with a light level of 12000-20000 lux. Filtered or dispersed light is ideal, as direct sunlight can harm the plant's leaves. Ensure adequate air movement, especially in brighter conditions, as the leaves are susceptible to burns.

2. Temperature: This orchid species thrives in moderate temperatures. During the summer, maintain an average temperature of around 22°C during the day and 13°C at night, with daily fluctuations of 9°C. In winter, the ideal temperature is between 22-25°C during the day and 11-12°C at night, creating a daily difference of 11-14°C.

3. Humidity: Trichopilia suavis prefers high humidity levels of 85-90% throughout most of the year, with a slight decrease to 65-70% in late winter.

4. Substrate and Growing Media: Attach the orchid to pieces of tree ferns or cork with high humidity, providing daily watering during the summer. In dry and hot periods, consider watering multiple times a day. Alternatively, it can be grown in pots with a loose substrate that quickly drains excess water. Consider using substances like cut sphagnum moss, perlite, and wood charcoal to ensure air permeability and protection against acidification.

5. Repotting: Replant Trichopilia suavis before the substrate becomes less permeable. The best time for repotting is the end of winter, just before flowering and new growth appear. This minimizes stress and allows the plant to acclimate before the hot, dry summer weather sets in.

6. Watering: Throughout the year, maintain consistent moisture levels, allowing the substrate to slightly dry between waterings from the end of spring to autumn. Gradually reduce the amount of water as new growths reach maturity in late autumn.

7. Fertilizer: During active growth, feed the plant with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended dose of orchid fertilizer every week. Use a fertilizer with increased nitrogen content during the beginning of the year when new growths are developing, then switch to a phosphorus-rich fertilizer in late summer and autumn to promote flowering and support young growth maturation.

8. Rest Period: During the winter, Trichopilia suavis requires less water. Allow the substrate to dry somewhat between waterings but avoid prolonged dryness. Supply enough water to prevent pseudobulbs from wrinkling. Limit or suspend fertilization until new growth appears.

This is a blooming size in a 5” pot about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

Trichopilia suavis is a mesmerizing addition to any orchid collection, and with its alluring fragrance and stunning flowers, it's sure to be a conversation starter. Embrace the uniqueness of this South American species and enjoy cultivating its beauty with care and dedication. Don't miss the opportunity to add this extraordinary orchid to your collection, as it is a rare find not often seen in today's collections.