Zygopetalum Debbie De Mello 'Honolulu Baby' 6"

The delightful Zygopetalum Debbie de Mello 'Honolulu Baby' is a hybrid that brings together two intriguing parents: Zygopetalum Imagination and Zygopetalum Helen-Ku. To understand this orchid's charm, we'll trace its lineage back to the species that contribute to its unique qualities.

Zygopetalum Imagination, the pod parent, is known for its beautiful, often deep blue and large lip. One of its parents is Zygopetalum Jumpin' Jack, which in turn counts Zygopetalum intermedium as a parent. Zygopetalum intermedium is a species native to Brazil, found in damp forests at elevations typically between 1,600 and 3,300 feet, experiencing intermediate to warm temperatures.

The pollen parent, Zygopetalum Helen-Ku, is a compact-growing and notably warmth-tolerant hybrid. Its lineage includes Zygopetalum maxillare and Zygopetalum Blackii. Zygopetalum maxillare hails from Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, often growing as an epiphyte in humid forests. Zygopetalum Blackii, another parent in the mix, carries genes from several species, including Zygopetalum crinitum, a Brazilian species found in cooler, humid environments.

So, you see, 'Honolulu Baby' has a family tree that stretches across various South American landscapes, giving it a remarkably adaptable nature.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the flower. 'Honolulu Baby' is renowned for its vibrant, show-stopping blooms that typically measure about 2.5 inches across. The sepals and petals present a captivating display of solid purple-bronze or rich chocolate brown, creating a striking contrast with the velvety, brilliant purple lip. Adding to its appeal, this orchid boasts a sweet, spicy fragrance that can fill a room, a delightful bonus that surprises many. You'll often find 4 to 8 of these impressive flowers on a single stem, emerging from new growths. This particular clone, 'Honolulu Baby', has received an Award of Merit (AM) from the American Orchid Society (AOS) with 86 points, recognizing its outstanding qualities in color, size, and form.

The foliage of Z. Debbie de Mello 'Honolulu Baby' consists of leathery, strap-like leaves, typically growing to an average plant height of 15 to 18 inches. This is a compact grower, making it a good choice even for those with limited space. While blooming season can vary, it often produces its wonderful flowers in late spring to early summer, and it's not uncommon for it to bloom more than once a year with good care.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct, harsh sun, which can scorch the leaves. A good indicator is sufficient light if leaves are bright green, not dark green (too little light) or yellowish (too much light). Approximately 3,000 foot-candles of light is a good target.

Water: Zygopetalums, including 'Honolulu Baby', appreciate consistent moisture, particularly during active growth. Water regularly, allowing the potting medium to just approach dryness between waterings, but do not let it dry out completely. Reduce watering slightly after new pseudobulbs have fully formed or during cooler, less active periods. It is often recommended to grow them in a moisture-retentive medium like sphagnum moss or a fine bark mix to ensure they don't dry out too quickly.

Temperature: This orchid thrives in intermediate to warm conditions. Daytime temperatures should range from 70 to 85°F, with nighttime temperatures between 55 to 65°F. While they can tolerate brief excursions to 90°F or even up to 100°F, ensure increased humidity and excellent air circulation at higher temperatures.

Humidity: Maintain humidity levels around 60% to 70%. Inconsistent watering or low humidity can lead to pleated, accordion-like leaves, which are unfortunately irreversible. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Potting Medium: A well-draining, yet moisture-retentive, potting mix is essential. Sphagnum moss is a popular choice for Zygopetalums due to its water-holding capacity. Other suitable mixes include fine fir bark, charcoal, and perlite. Repotting is best done when new growths are actively emerging and stretching upwards, as the roots can be brittle and prone to breaking.

Offered in 6" pots. These are large plants, many with multi-spikes.