What is Epidendrum Coriifolium?

Epidendrum coriifolium is a small, terrestrial plant native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It is commonly known as the narrow-leaved epidendrum due to its slender leaves which measure between 3 and 6 mm in length. The plant has a short, subterranean stem from which emerge several greens, lanceolate leaves that are arranged in whorls of three at regular intervals. The flowers are borne on racemes arising from between the leaves, with each raceme measuring between 15 and 20 cm in length. These fragrant blooms measure between 5 and 7 mm across and have yellow petals with purple veins. This epiphytic orchid species is grown for its unusual appearance and because it can be propagated through cuttings or by the division of its rhizomes. Here we explain everything you need to know about Epidendrum Coriifolium…

Description

The narrow-leaved epidendrum is a small, terrestrial orchid with slender leaves that are arranged in whorls of three at regular intervals. The flowers are borne on racemes arising from between the leaves, with each raceme measuring between 15 and 20 cm in length. These fragrant blooms measure between 5 and 7 mm across and have yellow petals with purple veins. The plant can be distinguished from other species of epidendrum by its short rhizome, fleshy roots, and whorls of leaves that are arranged in threes. The leaves of the narrow-leaved epidendrum are usually between 6 and 19 cm in length but can be as long as 33 cm when grown in a greenhouse. The leaves are generally between 3 and 6 mm wide and have a glossy, bright green upper surface. The lower surface of the leaves is covered with white, cobweb-like hairs.

How to care for an Epidendrum Coriifolium

As well as being grown as a houseplant, the narrow-leaved epidendrum is often cultivated in greenhouses. It thrives in pots filled with loam-based compost, with a small amount of grit added to the mix. Epidendrum coriifolium prefers to be grown in a mixture containing peat, bark, or coconut fiber, as well as perlite to ensure that the compost does not become waterlogged. This plant species is sensitive to overwatering, so care must be taken to avoid this. The narrow-leaved epidendrum should be repotted every one or two years, while it is in active growth, and needs to be kept in a shaded area during the winter months.

Growing Conditions

The narrow-leaved epidendrum can be grown both indoors and outdoors in warm, humid conditions where the temperature rarely falls below 10 degrees Celsius. The plant is sensitive to low temperatures, so it should be protected from frost and given plenty of shade, especially when grown indoors. Epidendrum coriifolium requires a daily or twice-daily watering regime, with the soil being allowed to dry out between waterings. The narrow-leaved epidendrum is a heavy feeder and will benefit from being given a balanced fertilizer, applied every two weeks. The plant prefers to be grown in a mixture of loam-based compost and peat, with a small amount of grit added to the mix.

Care and Cultivation

The narrow-leaved epidendrum should be given a small amount of liquid fertilizer every two weeks during its active growing season, which falls between October and February. The plant prefers to be grown in a mixture of loam-based compost and peat, with a small amount of grit added to the mix. The narrow-leaved epidendrum requires a humid environment, so it should be given plenty of shade, especially when grown indoors. When cultivated outdoors, the plant should be given a sheltered, sunny position in well-drained soil that contains plenty of organic matter. The narrow-leaved epidendrum should be given a small amount of liquid fertilizer every two weeks during its active growing season, which falls between October and February. The plant prefers to be grown in a mixture of loam-based compost and peat, with a small amount of grit added to the mix.

Conclusion

The narrow-leaved epidendrum is a striking houseplant that thrives in humid conditions and should be given plenty of shade when grown indoors. It is easy to care for and can be propagated through cuttings or by the division of its rhizomes. This is one of the most attractive epiphytic orchid species and makes an excellent addition to any collection of tropical houseplants. As well as being grown as a houseplant, the narrow-leaved epidendrum is often cultivated in greenhouses. It thrives in pots filled with loam-based compost, with a small amount of grit added to the mix.