Fire Star Orchid (Trichocentrum ascendens) is a small to medium-sized epiphytic orchid with fragrant, star-shaped flowers, native to Central and South America.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect
75% intensity
Provide bright, filtered light, similar to what Phalaenopsis orchids prefer. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Water when dry
50% intensity
Allow potting medium to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Orchid bark mix
50% intensity
Intermediate
50% intensity
Prefers intermediate temperatures: 20-27°C during the day and 13-18°C at night. A slight temperature drop can encourage blooming.
Monthly during growth
25% intensity
Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer, diluted, during active growth. Reduce or stop in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry, typically once a week during active growth. Reduce watering significantly during the winter rest period to prevent root rot.
Ensure good air circulation to allow the roots to dry between waterings.
Pruning is generally not required for *Trichocentrum ascendens*. Remove any dead or decaying leaves or flower spikes at their base using sterile scissors or a knife. This helps maintain the plant's health and aesthetics.
Propagation is typically done by division. When the plant becomes overcrowded and produces multiple pseudobulbs, it can be carefully divided.
Ensure each division has at least three pseudobulbs and healthy roots before repotting.
Repot *Trichocentrum ascendens* every 1-2 years, or when the potting medium begins to break down. Use a well-draining orchid mix. Repot after flowering when new root growth is evident.
Avoid disturbing the roots excessively.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Fire Star Orchid (Trichocentrum ascendens)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Trichocentrum |
| Species | Trichocentrum ascendens |
Similar in genus Trichocentrum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
