Arachnis flos-aeris Orchid – Rare Scorpion Plant

Discover the Exquisite Arachnis flos-aeris Orchid

Also known as the Scorpion Orchid, the Arachnis flos-aeris is a stunning epiphytic orchid named for its spider-like flowers. This unique plant features long, stout stems and distinctive leaves measuring approximately 17 cm long and 5 cm wide, tapering towards a two-lobed apex.

While Arachnis flos-aeris is a parent species to popular Mokara hybrids, the care instructions provided here are tailored for optimal growth, drawing from best practices for resilient tropical orchids:

• Light Requirements: Thrives in strong light, including full sun for part of the day, or 25-35 percent shade in a greenhouse. Gradual outdoor acclimatization is recommended.
• Watering: Requires frequent watering, especially when grown outdoors or in bright light. Allow the potting mixture to dry slightly on the surface between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity, with 80 percent being ideal. Placing the pot on a pebble-filled tray with water (below pebble tops) can help. Ensure good air circulation with a fan.
• Substrate: Best grown in a coarse, well-drained mixture such as fir bark or chopped tree fern.
• Temperature Tolerance: Does best in daytime temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18°C), tolerating up to 95 degrees F (35°C). Night temperatures should ideally stay above 55 degrees F (13°C).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'epiphytic' mean for this orchid?
A: An epiphytic orchid grows on other plants or trees for support, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and rain, rather than growing in soil.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Arachnis flos-aeris?
A: Fertilize weekly during spring and summer with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer diluted to full strength. In winter, reduce to every two to three weeks. For every third feeding, use a high-phosphorous 10-30-20 formula to encourage flowering.