Monkey face orchids also known as Dracula orchids are some of the most unusual and beautiful flowers in the world. They got their name because their blooms look like monkey faces. These orchids are native to Costa Rica and Ecuador and they grow in the mountains at elevations of 3000 to 8000 feet.
The monkey face orchid is a member of the Orchidaceae family and its scientific name is Dracula simia. These flowers are epiphytes which means that they grow on other plants or trees but they don’t take nutrients from them. Instead they get all the nutrients they need from the air rain and decaying matter in their environment.
Monkey face orchids are relatively easy to grow if you have the right conditions. They need a cool moist environment with plenty of air circulation. They also need a place to climb so you will need to provide them with a trellis or other support.
If you’re growing monkey face orchids indoors you will need to provide them with artificial lighting. They need 12 to 14 hours of light per day so a grow light or fluorescent light fixture will work well.
To water your monkey face orchids mist them lightly every day. You can also put them in a tray of water for a couple of hours each week. Be sure to empty the tray afterwards so that the roots don’t sit in water which can cause them to rot.
Fertilize your monkey face orchids every two weeks with a half-strength fertilizer. Be sure to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for orchids.
These beautiful flowers will bloom in the spring and summer. The blooming period can last for several weeks. After the blooms fade the plant will rest for a few months before blooming again.
If you provide your monkey face orchids with the proper care they will reward you with years of beautiful blooms.
How do you plant a monkey face orchid?
You should plant the orchid in a pot that is well-ventilated and has good drainage.
The pot should also be big enough for the roots to spread out.
What type of pot is best for a monkey face orchid?
A pot that is well-ventilated and has good drainage is best for a monkey face orchid.
The pot should also be big enough for the roots to spread out.
How often should you water a monkey face orchid?
You should water the orchid once a week letting the water sit for a few minutes before draining it.
How often should you fertilize a monkey face orchid?
You should fertilize the orchid every two weeks.
What is the best location to keep a monkey face orchid?
A monkey face orchid should be kept in a location with indirect sunlight.
What temperature is best for a monkey face orchid?
The temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
How much humidity does a monkey face orchid need?
A monkey face orchid needs high humidity so it is best to keep it in a terrarium or green house.
What is the best time of year to repot a monkey face orchid?
The best time of year to repot a monkey face orchid is in the spring.
How often does a monkey face orchid need to be repotted?
A monkey face orchid should be repotted every two to three years.
What should you do if the leaves of a monkey face orchid start to yellow?
If the leaves of a monkey face orchid start to yellow it could be a sign that the plant is not getting enough humidity.
Try misting the leaves with water or moving the plant to a more humid location.
What should you do if the flowers of a monkey face orchid start to droop?
If the flowers of a monkey face orchid start to droop it could be a sign that the plant is not getting enough water.
Try watering the plant more frequently.
What should you do if the flowers of a monkey face orchid fall off?
If the flowers of a monkey face orchid fall off it could be a sign that the plant is not getting enough humidity.
Try misting the leaves with water or moving the plant to a more humid location.
How can you tell if a monkey face orchid is healthy?
A healthy monkey face orchid will have green leaves and blooming flowers.
What are the signs of a sick monkey face orchid?
The leaves of a sick monkey face orchid will start to yellow and the flowers will droop or fall off.
How can you treat a sick monkey face orchid?
If your monkey face orchid is sick try misting the leaves with water or moving the plant to a more humid location.
You can also fertilize the plant every two weeks.
