Tiny Orchid

[ChrisKlinger]

Hello!
I went for a hike today on a mountain in Maranguape, Ceara, Brazil, and brought home a bromeliad-bearing stick that had fallen from a tree. Only now, when i got home, did I notice theres a tiny orchid on the stick, too. The leaves are about 28mm (1-1/4") long, and the flowers are about 3mm (3/16") diameter. I'd be thrilled to see it thrive, but have _no_ idea how to care for it. I've placed the stick in an area where the conditions are a similar to its habitat as I can replicate. Now what? Mist it daily? Cross my fingers? Any suggestions appreciated. (2 pics attached)

[jerrymeola]

It will hard to estimate the light level in which it was growing.

The light will vary greatly by how high i the trees it grew. I would give it half day sun and watch closely. If the leaves brown (in a single day) the light is too strong and the plant is burning.

If the leaves are green the light level is not too low. If it fails to flower this time next year It should be moved to more light.

Misting often is the best care for bare root plants which this certainly is. Small plants can dry out very quick.

Your photos did not attach. They have to be posted on the internet first and attached to your post.

[ChrisKlinger]

Thanks a million fot the tips Jerry. The fallen stick had apparently lain upon th ground for some time, as the leaves seem to have turned direction. At any rate, the area was _highly_ shaded. I placed the plant beside a small artificial waterfall, where it receives light from a 50W dichroic halogen lamp, and the area is about as humid as the forest.
Sorry I didn't get the uploads right; but here are the pics, if you'd like to see them. (please add the www, as I'm not permitted to post links yet)
fotosoaqui.com.br/images/DSC00127.jpg
fotosoaqui.com.br/images/DSC00128.jpg

Thanks again; I was beginning to think I wouldn't get any replies at all!
Chris

[eikon]

chris,
from your photo, it looks like something close to "Tolumnia variegata" (from Cuba) this page may give you some help. http://www.orchidspecies.com/tolvariegatum.htm. The succulent type leaves mean that the roots should dry out a bit (turn white) before watering. I could be wrong, but I am certain that someone will correct me if I am

[jerrymeola]

It is adorable.

Placing it beside the waterfall will be good. If it was surviving on the forest floor it should take your shade well. It looks like it would attach itself well to a rock next to the waterfall. I bet it will grow to cover a 6-8 inch rock in time.