Orchids That Smell Like Coconut

Temperature

• The coconut orchid is ideal for the home. Like other orchids, the coconut orchid can thrive in temperatures of up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Maxillaria tenuifolia is best at temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. For orchid lovers, this is a bonus because the plant will smell great and give beautiful blooms without heating.

Water and Light

• The coconut orchid needs a lot of moisture and filtered light. It is best to keep the soil moist to touch, and the plant out of direct sunlight. The warmer the temperature in your home, the more moisture the plant will need. This is another benefit because coconut orchids do not have to sit near a glass window or door.

Fertilizer

• Orchids do not use soil, so they need to be fertilized regularly. There are specially made fertilizers for orchids that are usually recommended for use every two weeks. Although some use rocks and charcoal, for the best growth and moisture retention, plant your orchids in wood chips. This will ensure the moisture stays within reach of the plant, rather than slip to the bottom of a pot. For the coconut orchid, Carl Lemke of University of Oklahoma recommends fir bark.

Blooms

• Orchids provide blooms of all shapes, sizes and colors, but the coconut orchid gives off an orange to red bloom with yellow lips or tips and brown spotting. Coconut orchids will typically bloom from March to April when the smell of coconut emits from the plant. For the best smelling coconut, keep your orchid at temperatures above 68 degrees Fahrenheit.