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Pholidota imbricata, Coelogyne imbricata, Pholidota bracteata, Pholidota crotalina
Necklace Orchid, Rattlesnake OrchidFamily: Orchidaceae
Origin: Himalayas, Southeast Asia, Australia
Native to the Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and Australia, Pholidota imbricata is a small shrub, which typically grows between 2-5 feet tall and about 12-24 inches wide. It is an epiphytic stemless orchid and must be provided support for the stem to cling to, such as a tree branch, moss or other plants. As a semi shade loving species, this orchid prefers indirect light, in partial shade or filtered sunlight, and should not be exposed to direct and intense sunlight.
When it comes to temperature and humidity, Pholidota imbricata prefers lows 70°F in summer and can tolerate as low as 50°F in winter. It's best to provide it with high humidity levels and regular water with an evenly moist soil mix. Watering can be done roughly every other day and during growing season, more frequent watering should be provided. During the dry season, water less and drench the pot when it's needed.
The flowers produced by Pholidota imbricata are quite small and they grow in umbels, either stalkless or borne on a slender peduncle. The flower colors are white, off-white, yellow, and orange and they have a slightly musky scent. Apart from its ornamental value, it also has ethnomedical benefit and has been used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic benefits.
When it comes to growing Pholidota imbricata in a pot, there are certain requirements that need to be met. In cold regions, using a good quality soil, providing the orchid with adequate light and allowing the soil to dry before watering the pot again is necessary. You may need to bring the pot into a sheltered area during the cold winter months for protection. Alternating between a light and a dark period is also important for stimulating blooms.
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