Mexicoa orchid genus contains just one species, which has been moved from Oncidium and given monotypic status. Mexicoa ghiesbrechtiana is small in stature, with oval pseudobulbs and a pair of narrowly oval leaves. As its name suggests, it originates from Mexico and grows epiphytically. This is an ideal subject for inclusion in a collection of miniature orchids, since this little plant rarely exceeds 15cm (6in) in height, even when in flower. It associates well with other members of the Odontoglossum alliance.
The attractive blooms, on short flower spikes, are yellow and the petals and sepals are shaded with brown. The lip is large, reminiscent of Oncidium, and dominates the flower. The flowers appear mainly during summer and will last for a few weeks. Temperature for Mexicoa is cool-growing. Mexicoa grow in pots of fine bark compost (growing medium) or mounted on bark. Grow in good shade in summer, but give more light in winter. Water all year, but give less in winter. Feed lightly at every third watering in summer. Lightly mist the foliage in summer. Height is 15cm (6in).
The plants produce rosettes of leaves at intervals along a creeping rhizome. Shortly after the appearance of the new growth, roots appear around the base and these will penetrate the compost (growing medium). The flowers appear from the centre of the maturing growth on an upright flower spike. The curious, pretty blooms are white with yellow on the lip.
Neofineta has been settled upon a single species, which has undergone numerous name changes since its discovery in 1784. It is a small-growing, monopodial, evergreen species from Japan, which has a large following of devoted growers who cultivate the plant for its often-seen, variegated foliage, considered in Japan to be highly decorative.
The plant seldom reaches more than 10cm (4in) in height, producing semi-rigid, fleshy leaves from the apex. The flowers, usually two or three on a short stem, are white with a long, curving spur. Temperature is cool-growing. Grow in a small container of fine bark compost (growing medium) or mounted on hark. Maintain good light and high humidity by spraying the foliage regularly. Keep moist all year, and apply feed during the summer. Height is 10cm (4in).
Neofineta falcata is an attractive, modestly sized, monopodial plant with flower spikes of pure white blooms, each with a long spur. Grow in good light in a cool greenhouse. Flowers appear at various tunes.
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