Epidendrum Parkinsonianum

If you’re looking for a truly special orchid that combines rarity with a beautiful scent, look no further. The Epidendrum parkinsonianum is a stunning species that deserves a spot in any serious collection.

This orchid is known for its unique, pendant growth and wonderfully fragrant flowers. It’s not the easiest to find, but with the right care, it can be a long-lived and rewarding plant. Let’s look at how you can successfully grow this gem.

Often called the “Parkinson’s Epidendrum,” this plant is native to the cloud forests of Mexico and Central America. It grows at high elevations, which is a key clue to its care needs. Unlike many orchids, it has a distinctive hanging or pendant habit, with long, reed-like stems that can reach several feet in length.

The flowers are its main attraction. They are typically white or pale green with a striking, fringed lip. Most notably, they emit a strong, sweet fragrance, often described as citrusy or like honey, which is most potent in the evening.

Why Is It Considered Rare?

Several factors contribute to the rarity of Epidendrum parkinsonianum in cultivation:

Specific Habitat Needs: Its native cloud forest environment is hard to replicate perfectly in a home.
Slow Growth Rate: It can take years for a seedling to reach blooming size, which limits commercial production.
Habitat Loss: Deforestation in its native range has impacted wild populations.
Collection Pressure: Historically, it was over-collected, though now most plants are propogated by reputable nurseries.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To mimic its natural home, you’ll need to pay attention to a few critical factors. Getting these right is the secret to seeing those fragrant blooms.

Light Requirements

This orchid prefers bright, filtered light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would receive under the canopy of tall trees.

Provide bright, indirect light. An east-facing window is often ideal.
Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the long, thin leaves.
If using grow lights, fluorescent or LED panels work well for about 12-14 hours a day.

Temperature & Humidity

As a high-altitude plant, it enjoys cool to intermediate temperatures and appreciates a significant drop at night.

Daytime: Aim for 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Nighttime: A drop to 50-60°F (10-15°C) is crucial, especially in the fall to initiate flower spikes.
Humidity: Maintain 60-70% humidity. Use a humidifier, a pebble tray, or group it with other plants.

Good air movement is essential to prevent fungal issues in these humid conditions. A small, oscillating fan on low setting helps alot.

Watering & Feeding

This species likes to dry out somewhat between waterings but should not stay bone dry for extended periods.

Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry.
Allow water to run freely through the pot, ensuring the roots get hydrated.
Reduce watering slightly during the cooler, darker winter months.

For fertilizer, use a balanced orchid fertilizer (like 20-20-20) at half strength. Apply it every other week during the active growing season (spring and summer). In fall and winter, cut back to once a month. Flush the pot with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup.

Potting and Mounting Options

Due to its pendant growth, Epidendrum parkinsonianum is often grown mounted or in hanging baskets. This allows its stems to cascade naturally, just like they do in the wild.

Mounting on Cork or Tree Fern

Soak your mount (cork bark or tree fern plaque) and some sphagnum moss overnight.
Place a small pad of moss on the mount to hold moisture around the roots.
Position the orchid on the mount, securing it with fishing line or non-copper wire until the roots attach.
Mounted plants need more frequent watering, often daily in warm weather.

Using a Hanging Basket

If you prefer a pot, a slatted wooden or mesh basket is best. It provides excellent drainage and air flow to the roots.

Use a very open, fast-draining mix. Large chunks of bark, charcoal, and perlite work well.
You can line the basket with a little moss to help retain some moisture.
Repot only when the medium breaks down, usually every 2-3 years, being careful with the fragile roots.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide

You can propagate Epidendrum parkinsonianum from keikis (baby plants) that sometimes form on old canes. Division is also possible but tricky due to its growth habit.

Wait for a keiki to develop several roots that are at least 2-3 inches long.
Using a sterile knife or scissors, cut the stem about an inch above and below the keiki.
Pot or mount the keiki in a small container using fine-grade mix or moss. Keep it in higher humidity until it establishes.
For division, only attempt on a very large, multi-stemmed clump. Gently seperate stems with healthy root systems and pot them individually.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, you might encounter a few issues. Here’s how to handle them.

Yellowing Leaves

This can have a couple causes. Older leaves yellowing and dropping is normal. If new leaves are yellowing, it’s often due to too much light or overwatering. Check your conditions and adjust accordingly.

Lack of Flowering

If your plant is healthy but won’t bloom, the most likely culprit is insufficient temperature drop at night. Try moving it to a cooler spot in the fall. Also, ensure it’s getting enough light; a plant that’s just surviving won’t have the energy to produce blooms.

Pests to Watch For

Scale & Mealybugs: Look for small, brown bumps or white cottony masses. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: These cause fine webbing and stippled leaves. Increase humidity and rinse the plant regularly.
Aphids: They might attack new growth. A strong spray of water usually knocks them off.

Always isolate a new plant for a few weeks to ensure it’s not bringing any pests into your collection. This simple step saves alot of trouble later.

FAQ Section

How often does Epidendrum parkinsonianum bloom?

Typically once a year, usually in late winter or spring. Mature, happy plants may sometimes produce a second, smaller flush of blooms in the fall.

What is the best way to get the fragrance from my Epidendrum parkinsonianum?

The scent is strongest in the evening and at night. Place your plant in a room where you spend your evenings to fully enjoy the perfume. The flowers need to be mature and fully open for the fragrance to develop.

Can I grow this orchid outdoors?

Yes, if you live in a climate with mild, frost-free summers and can provide the right light and humidity. It must be brought indoors well before any threat of frost. A shaded patio or hung from a tree branch can work perfectly.

Why are the leaf tips on my Epidendrum parkinsonianum turning brown?

Brown leaf tips are usually a sign of low humidity, salt buildup from fertilizer, or inconsistent watering. Try increasing the local humidity and remember to flush the potting medium with plain water monthly.

Is this species a good choice for beginners?

It can be challenging due to its need for cool nights and high humidity. It’s often recommended for growers who have some experience with intermediate orchids and can provide its specific conditions. Don’t be discouraged, but be prepared to pay close attention to it’s needs.

Growing Epidendrum parkinsonianum is a testiment to your gardening skills. Its graceful, hanging form and the reward of its fragrant flowers make the extra effort worthwhile. By providing the cool nights, bright light, and careful watering it requires, you can enjoy this rare and beautiful orchid for many years. Remember, patience is key with such a special plant.