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Bright, indirect light similar to Cattleya orchids. The plant needs strong light to bloom well but should be shielded from harsh midday sun, which can scorch the leaves. An east- or shaded south-facing window works well.Light
Allow the top half of the potting mix to dry between waterings. water thoroughly (water until it drains out the bottom. Empty the saucer after 30 minutes so the roots are not sitting in water), then let it drain completely. Reduce watering in autumn and winter to encourage blooming.Water
50-70% relative humidity is ideal. A pebble tray with water under the pot works well in dry homes.Humidity
Intermediate to warm: 60-90°F (15-32°C) during the day. Does not tolerate frost; keep above 50°F (10°C) at all times.Temperature
moderateDifficulty

Spice Orchid

Epidendrum atropurpureum

Moderate

Epidendrum atropurpureum, now more correctly known as Encyclia cordigera, is a pseudobulbous orchid that produces clusters of richly colored, long-lasting flowers in shades of deep brown, olive-green, and warm purple with a broad, bright magenta or violet lip. Your plant will fill a room with its strong, spicy-sweet fragrance on sunny days, which is exactly where the common name comes from. It is a forgiving grower that tolerates slightly drier conditions than many orchids, making it a good pick if you want fragrance without constant fussing.

Care Guide

How to grow Spice Orchid

Light

Bright, indirect light similar to

Water

Allow the top half of

Humidity

50-70%

Temperature

60-90°F

Soil

Coarse, fast-draining orchid bark mix

Propagation

Division at repotting time, separating

Common Problems

Spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and whiteflies.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

This orchid has been renamed so many times that taxonomists stopped counting at around 20 synonyms; it was originally described as Cymbidium cordigerum in 1815 and the confusion was not properly resolved until the 1960s.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Not listed as toxic to cats, dogs, or horses. Generally considered safe around pets and people.

Sources

  1. Encyclia cordigera - American Orchid Society (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
  2. Encyclia cordigera - American Orchid Society (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Encyclia cordigera - Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Encyclia cordigera - Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Encyclia cordigera care and culture - Travaldo's Blog (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. Encyclia cordigera care and culture - Travaldo's Blog (opens in new tab)Reference
  7. Psychilis atropurpurea (Spice Orchid) - NC State Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
  8. Psychilis atropurpurea (Spice Orchid) - NC State Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
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