Aerides houlletiana

Aerides houlletiana Culture

This medium to large-sized orchid species, also known as "Houllet's Aerides," is native to evergreen, semi-deciduous, and dry lowland forests of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It is an epiphyte that grows in hot to warm conditions. I

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate more sun than many orchids, but direct midday sun should be avoided to prevent leaf burn.
• Temperature: Thrives in hot to warm environments. Ideal daytime temperatures range between 22-30°C (72-86°F), with a night drop to 16-20°C (61-68°F).
• Humidity: High humidity is essential, ideally between 60-80%. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal problems.
• Watering: Requires frequent watering during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the media to stay moist but not waterlogged. In cooler months, reduce the watering frequency, allowing the medium to approach dryness between waterings.

Additional Notes

Floral Characteristics: Aerides houlletiana produces a long, pendulous inflorescence with 12 to 20 large, fleshy, and highly fragrant flowers. The waxy, 1 to 2-inch flowers are typically creamy yellow, white, and magenta, with a prominent, brightly colored lip. The sweet, intense fragrance is most noticeable during the day.