beginnercommonEncyclia
Cockleshell Orchid
Encyclia cochleata
National flower of Belize; non-resupinate flowers with shell-shaped purple lip held uppermost.
Bloomsgreenpurple
Sign in to addWatermedium
Bright indirect light
Lightmedium
Light feeding
Foodmedium
Balanced orchid fertilizer at 1/4 strength
Temp
55-85°F
Humidity
50-70%
Origin
Caribbean, Central America
About Cockleshell Orchid
Researching Cockleshell Orchid…
Care guide
Potting medium
Open, fast-draining orchid bark mix in a pot with drainage holes.
Repotting
Every 2 years or when the medium breaks down.
Bloom season
Varies by species and growing conditions.
Bloom longevity
Typically 3–6 weeks per spike.
Growth habit
Refer to the species' parent genus for growth pattern.
Propagation
Division at repotting time, ideally just as new growth begins.
Pests & prevention
Watch for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites — wipe with diluted isopropyl alcohol.
Signs of trouble
- ●Mushy roots → reduce watering and repot in fresh dry medium
- ●Yellowing leaves → check light levels and watering frequency
Grower's tips
- ★Consistency matters more than perfection — pick a routine and stick with it.
- ★Air movement prevents most fungal and bacterial issues.
