Catasetinae Alliance: Chysis aurea

Introducing the Golden Chysis Orchid (Chysis aurea) – A Stunning Epiphytic Wonder from South America!

Discover the allure of the Golden Chysis Orchid, a captivating species native to the lush rainforests of Venezuela, Colombia, and possibly Panama. This orchid's natural habitat lies in the heart of dense, damp forests, where it thrives on large trees, often found nestled on trunks or at the base of grand branches. It's a mesmerizing sight to see these elegant epiphytic or semi-terrestrial wonders flourishing amidst the verdant greenery.

Exquisite Features: Standing tall at up to 50 cm, the Golden Chysis is a sight to behold. Its elongated, fusiform-clavate pseudobulbs, reaching up to 50 cm in length, serve as the foundation for its breathtaking presence. The distichous, oblong-lanceolate leaves, up to 30 cm long and 5 cm wide, exhibit an undulating and membranous texture, adding to the orchid's unique charm.

Ephemeral Elegance: The Golden Chysis graces us with its resplendent blossoms during the summer months. The racemose inflorescence, which can grow to a robust 30 cm, is marked by its pendulous to arching posture. Adorned with ovate, acuminate, concave bracts, it hosts up to 12 waxy and fragrant flowers. These long-lived flowers come in a range of hues, making each bloom a masterpiece of color variation. With diameters ranging from 4.0 to 7.5 cm, the petals display a mesmerizing interplay of pale yellow, red, and orange-brown shades, creating an ethereal dance of colors. The intricate lip, adorned with red-brown spots, adds a final touch of elegance.

Cultivation Tips:

Light: Provide filtered and dispersed light, avoiding direct sunlight during afternoon hours. Aim for a light level of 25000-35000 lux and ensure consistent air movement.

Temperature: Catering to its thermophilic nature, maintain an average summer temperature of 26-27°C during the day and 17°C at night. In winter, temperatures of 24-26°C in the daytime and 14-15°C at night are ideal, allowing for a daily difference of 11-12°C.

Humidity: Sustain a humidity level of 75-80% throughout the year to mimic the orchid's natural habitat.

Substrate and Repotting: Opt for uneven bark or tree fern washers for mounted plants, ensuring high humidity. Hanging pots and baskets with a loose, airy substrate work well. Tree fern fibers, perlite, and large charcoal pieces contribute to optimal growth conditions.

Watering: In spring to autumn, water generously, with reduced frequency in winter. Prevent substrate saturation and dampness. Reduce watering as new growths mature in autumn.

Fertilizer: Feed weekly with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended orchid fertilizer dose. High-nitrogen fertilizer in spring to mid-summer promotes growth, while phosphorus-rich fertilizer in late summer and autumn aids flowering.

Rest Period: During winter, limit watering while avoiding prolonged dryness. Reduce or halt fertilization until new growth emerges, signaling the onset of abundant spring watering.

This is a blooming size imported bare root orchid division; newly repotted in a 4" or 5" pot; about 1 to 2 years to bloom; Grown from seed; Limited!

Embrace the challenge of cultivating the Golden Chysis Orchid, and be rewarded with the splendor of its vibrant blossoms, evoking the mystique of its natural habitat. Create your own orchid haven and witness the beauty of this South American gem flourish in your care.