Epidendrum criniferum

A distinctive reed-stem Epidendrum from Andean cloud forests, bearing clusters of star-shaped flowers in yellow-green heavily spotted with dark maroon-brown, and a striking white, fringed lip with delicate hair-like appendages — a truly unusual species for collectors of botanical orchids.

• Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates some morning sun. Avoid harsh midday sun. Thrives under 50–70% shade cloth in a greenhouse setting.
• Temperature: Intermediate to cool-growing; prefers 52–75°F (11–24°C). Benefits from cooler nights to stimulate blooming.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity, ideally 60–80%. Good air movement is important to keep the cane-like stems healthy.
• Watering: Water freely during active growth; allow the top of the medium to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.

Additional Notes:

Best grown in medium bark mix in clay or plastic pots with good drainage. New growths emerge from the base of mature canes — avoid cutting old canes as they can rebloom in subsequent seasons.