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Cockleshell Orchid
beginnercommonProsthechea

Cockleshell Orchid

Prosthechea cochleata

Upside-down dark purple lip resembles a shell; national flower of Belize.

Bloomspurplegreen
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Watermedium

Allow slight drying

Lightmedium

Bright filtered

Foodmedium

Monthly feed

Temp

60-85°F

Humidity

50-70%

Origin

Central America, Caribbean

Special care:Continuous bloomer; easy

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.