Jessie Keith
Family
Orchidaceae
Botanical Name
Miltonia
Plant Common Name
Miltonia, Pansy Orchid
General Description
Miltonia comprises roughly 18 naturally occurring and hybrid species. These frost tender epiphytes (tree-dwellers) naturally inhabit Brazilian rain forests where growing conditions are warm, moist and foggy. Some species in the genus Miltoniopsis were once included in Miltonia. Plants from both genera are colloquially called "pansy orchids", although the blooms of Miltoniopsis better resemble pansies.
Species in Miltonia have somewhat fast-growing, long rhizomes that clasp onto tree trunks in addition to leathery green pseudobulbs. Each pseudobulb generates two linear to oblong green leaves (Miltoniopsis only produce one leaf). From the base of the pseudobulbs arise flower stalks that display six-petaled flowers, each with a slightly larger and more rounded lower petal.
Most Miltonia need bright, dappled sunlight and high humidity to thrive and flower and will not tolerate seasonal dryness. Being epiphytes, they grow well in hanging baskets in warm, moist greenhouses or humid tropical regions. The creeping, spreading roots of container grown specimens require careful repotting every two years or so. These orchids are sensitive to fertilizers, so any applied should be diluted to quarter strength and applied only when plants are actively growing. Flush the roots thoroughly with pure water monthly to remove any salt buildup.
Growing Conditions
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Growth Rate
Slow
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Water Requirements
Average Water
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Petal Number
Single
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Tropical
