Hwra. Lava Burst 'Pacific Sunrise'

The name Howeara (Hwra.) tells us this is an intergeneric hybrid, a mix of three different orchid genera: Leochilus, Oncidium, and Rodriguezia. It has a rich family tree with ancestors from all over Central and South America, from the warm lowlands of Brazil to the cooler cloud forests of Mexico. This diverse background is what makes it such an adaptable and forgiving plant to grow, and it thrives for us here in Hawaii's climate.

The plant itself is genuinely miniature. It grows in a tight clump of small, slightly flattened, teardrop-shaped pseudobulbs, each with one or two light green, strap-like leaves. It’s the perfect plant for a small space.

The real show is the inflorescence. A slender, often branching spike arches gracefully from the base of the pseudobulb, presenting a spray of numerous small, vibrant flowers. Each bloom is only about an inch across, but they are incredibly eye-catching. The cultivar 'Pacific Sunrise' is particularly brilliant, with a bright yellow base color flushed with a fiery orange-red blush and delicate spotting. Its beauty has been formally recognized with a 'Highly Commended Certificate' from the American Orchid Society (HCC/AOS). It’s a wonderfully prolific bloomer and can flower multiple times a year, often in the spring and fall.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light, between 1,500 and 2,500 foot-candles. An east-facing window is perfect. It can also be grown under fluorescent or LED grow lights. The leaves should be a light, bright green; dark green may indicate not enough light, while a yellowish tint can mean it's getting too much direct sun.

Water: This hybrid prefers to be kept evenly moist but not soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the medium feels dry to the touch. Due to its fine root system, it should not be allowed to dry out completely for extended periods.

Temperature: Its diverse background makes it very adaptable. It is happiest in intermediate temperatures with daytime highs of 70-80°F and nighttime lows of 60-65°F. It can tolerate warmer conditions with good humidity and air movement.

Humidity: Moderate humidity of 50% to 70% is ideal. Place the pot on a tray of wet pebbles or use a humidifier if your growing area is dry. Good air circulation is important.

Potting Medium: Due to its fine roots, it does well in a small pot with a fine-grade potting mix, such as a blend of fine fir bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. It can also be mounted on cork or tree fern, but this will require more frequent watering, likely daily. Repot every one to two years as the medium breaks down.

Grown in 3" pots and currently in bud/spike. Perfect for collectors and growers with limited space.