Zygopetalum Advance Australia 'HOF' AM/AOS

Z. Advance Australia is an award-winning Zygopetalum hybrid created by Adelaide Orchids in 1993. This exceptional hybrid, a cross between Z. Titanic and Z. Helen-Ku, offers a spicy-sweet fragrance that evokes the mystery of far-off places. 

You can expect 5 to 6 absolutely captivating flowers per inflorescence, each measuring about 2 to 3 inches across. The petals and sepals are a lovely bright green, often mottled and spotted with deep mahogany or purplish hues, creating a mesmerizing pattern. But the real showstopper is the lip—a prominent splash of white, dramatically streaked with vibrant purple or lavender. It boasts a spicy, almost hyacinth-like fragrance that's truly intoxicating. The blooms are also wonderfully long-lasting, often gracing your space for 1 to 3 months.

The foliage of Zygopetalum Advance Australia is equally appealing. The plants typically grow to about 1 to 2 feet tall, featuring ovoid to conical pseudobulbs that store water and nutrients. From these pseudobulbs emerge two to three glossy, strap-like, deep green leaves, often reaching up to 2 feet in length. The flower spikes are erect and strong, usually extending gracefully past the leaves, holding the beautiful blooms aloft.

This orchid has earned accolades, with notable cultivars like 'H.O.F.' receiving awards from the American Orchid Society (AM/AOS), a testament to its exceptional qualities.

Beautifully grown in 4" pots, currently in spike.

Care Instructions for Zygopetalum Advance Australia:

• Light: This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of an east or west-facing window, or a south-facing window with a sheer curtain to diffuse the light. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
• Water: Zygopetalums enjoy being kept consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the potting medium to just approach dryness between waterings. In warmer, drier weather, you might find yourself watering 2 to 3 times a week. Wrinkled, accordion-like leaves can be a sign of insufficient water, so keep an eye out for that. Using rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water is ideal, as they prefer low alkalinity.
• Temperature: These orchids prefer intermediate to cool conditions. Aim for daytime temperatures between 70°F and 75°F, with a night drop to 58°F to 62°F. A drop in night temperatures below 65°F can encourage flower spiking.
• Humidity: While not overly critical if watered well, Zygopetalums appreciate humidity levels above 50%. You can achieve this with a humidity tray or a room humidifier, ensuring good air circulation to prevent issues.
• Potting Medium: A free-draining mix is key. A blend of fine bark, charcoal, and perlite works wonderfully. Some growers also have success with sphagnum moss, especially if you're comfortable with its moisture retention. Repotting is best done when new growths are emerging, as the roots are a bit brittle.