Laelia ghillanyi

Laelia ghillanyi, is found in Brazil, it grows wild in the state of Minas Gerais, specifically between Serra do Cipo and Conceicao do Mato Dentro, at elevations between 1500 to 1600 meters on volcanic rock outcroppings.

Laelia ghillanyi is a miniature sized lithophyte, thriving in warm intermediate conditions. It features small, globose pseudobulbs, 5-7 cm tall and wider at the base, each carrying a single, stiff, coriaceous, ovate-lanceolate, acute leaf measuring 10 to 15 cm in length. The foliage is green with a distinctive maroon coloration near the edges of the leaves and pseudobulbs.

In the spring, Ghilliany's Laelia blooms with a terminal, erect inflorescence, 20 to 25 cm long, bearing a single magenta-purple flower with a pale or white lip, approximately 3 cm in diameter. Albescens and alba forms of Laelia ghillanyi are also known to exist.

Cultivation Tips for Laelia ghillanyi

• Light:

  • Requires good light (30,000-40,000 lux) with about 30-50% shade in summer but no direct sun.
  • High light intensity is needed during the dormant period in winter.
  • Prefers direct morning sun but should avoid afternoon light and deep shade.

• Temperature:

  • Thrives in temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F) during the day.
  • Winter temperatures should be around 12°C (54°F), rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F).

• Humidity:

  • Needs good air movement year-round.
  • Requires moderate to high humidity (50-70%) in summer and lower humidity in winter.

• Substrate and Repotting:

  • Typically grown in pots.
  • Pieces of sandstone can be added to the potting mix to encourage root growth if needed.
  • Use the smallest pot possible to facilitate faster drying and reduce the risk of root rot.
  • Avoid disturbing the plant; if repotting is necessary due to decomposed bark, consider placing the existing pot into a slightly larger pot to allow roots to fill the space between the pots.

• Watering:

  • In their natural environment, these orchids receive daily rain in summer.
  • Water regularly during the warmer summer and autumn months, preferably daily in hot weather.
  • Plants grown on slabs should be watered daily in warm weather.
  • Experiences a 2-3 month dry season in winter.

• Fertilizer:

  • Apply liquid fertilizers regularly during the growing season but not in winter.
  • Use a low nitrogen but high phosphorus fertilizer in late summer and autumn.
  • Liquid seaweed fertilizer can also be beneficial.

• Rest Period:

  • Laelia ghillanyi has a short 2-3 month dry period.
  • Limit or completely cease fertilization until spring, when stronger watering resumes.
  • Provide as much light as possible during the dry winter period to mimic natural habitat conditions.

This is a blooming size imported bare root orchid; newly repotted in a 4" clay pot; about 1 to 2 years to bloom; Grown from seed; Limited!

Laelia ghillanyi, a miniature lithophytic orchid from Brazil, is prized for its vibrant magenta-purple flowers and distinctive maroon-edged foliage. Ideal for cool to cold climates, it thrives with good light, moderate to high humidity, and regular summer watering. Perfect for both seasoned orchid enthusiasts and beginners, Laelia ghillanyi adds a touch of exotic beauty to any collection with its unique growth habits and striking blooms.