Coelogyne mossiae

Coelogyne mossiae – A Jewel of the Nilgiri Hills

Coelogyne mossiae is a stunning orchid species native to the misty, moss-covered landscapes of Southwest India. Found growing at elevations of 2130–2440 m on the Nilgiri and Pulney Hills, these orchids thrive in a habitat adorned with magnolias, rhododendrons, and perpetual fog. This small-sized, cold-growing epiphyte or lithophyte reaches heights of 20–25 cm, with clustered, ridged pseudobulbs measuring 4–5.5 cm in length. Each pseudobulb carries two apical, linear-oblong, plicate leaves approximately 10–14 cm long and 3–4 cm wide.

In spring and summer, Coelogyne mossiae graces us with fragrant, simultaneously opening white flowers marked with yellow-brown spots on the lip. These blossoms, measuring 5.0–6.4 cm in diameter, cascade elegantly from a racemose, pendulous inflorescence, making them a breathtaking addition to any orchid collection.

Cultivation Tips for Coelogyne mossiae

Light

Provide 20000–30000 lux of light with strong air circulation. Position the plant in bright, filtered light for optimal growth.

Temperature

• Summer: Daytime 20–21°C (68–70°F), Nighttime 11–12°C (52–54°F), with a daily fluctuation of ~9°C.
• Winter: Daytime 18–22°C (64–72°F), Nighttime 8–9°C (46–48°F), with a daily fluctuation of 10–13°C.

Humidity

Maintain 85% humidity during summer and early spring, decreasing to 60–70% in winter.

Watering

During active growth, water generously while allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings. In autumn, as growth matures, gradually reduce watering. During winter, provide light, occasional watering or misting to prevent excessive drying.

Substrate and Repotting

• Grow on tree fern mounts or cork slabs to mimic natural epiphytic conditions, ensuring high humidity and frequent watering during summer.
• Alternatively, plant in shallow baskets or flat containers using a fast-drying, loose mix like medium bark, tree fern fiber, or sphagnum moss with additives like perlite or charcoal.
• Repot only when absolutely necessary, ideally when new roots are emerging. Avoid frequent repotting, as the plant may take 2–3 years to recover.

Fertilization

• During active growth, fertilize weekly using ¼–½ strength orchid fertilizer.
• In late summer and autumn, switch to a fertilizer with reduced nitrogen and higher phosphorus to promote blooming and strengthen growth for winter.
• Flush the substrate monthly to prevent salt buildup from fertilizers.

Rest Period

• Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters dormancy. Occasional misting is sufficient to prevent dehydration.
• Monitor pseudobulbs for slight wrinkling—this is natural. Excessive wrinkling indicates under-watering, while plump pseudobulbs may signify overwatering, which can hinder blooming.
• Gradually increase watering in spring as new roots emerge.

This is a blooming size in a 5" pot, newly repotted, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, Limited!

Coelogyne mossiae is perfect for orchid enthusiasts who enjoy cultivating species with unique growth habits and fragrant blooms. With its delicate flowers and specific environmental needs, this orchid rewards growers with breathtaking displays reminiscent of its misty, moss-laden homeland.