# Miltassia Charles M Fitch ‘Izumi' - hybrid - orchid

Miltassia (Bratonia) Charles M Fitch ‘Izumi' - clones

Miltassia Charles M Fitch ‘Izumi' is a popular and easy-to-grow intergeneric hybrid known for its stunning, fragrant, star-shaped lavender or purple flowers. It is suitable for beginner orchid growers and home hobbyists.

Description

Flowers: The plant produces striking star-shaped flowers that combine the form of Brassia orchids (long, spidery petals) with the large, flared lip of Miltonia orchids. The flowers are typically mottled lavender or purple and are often described as having a spicy fragrance.

Blooming: A mature plant can produce an impressive inflorescence with 10 to 14 flowers per spike, and the blooms can last for months.

Size: It is a medium to large-sized plant, with a blooming-size specimen being quite substantial.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light or partial shade. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

Temperature: This orchid prefers intermediate to warm conditions, with night temperatures between 10°C to 16°C and day temperatures between 24°C to 29°C. It can tolerate occasional higher temperatures if humidity and air movement are increased.

Watering: Water regularly, allowing the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings, especially in hot weather. It is more drought-tolerant than some pure Miltonia species, but should not be allowed to dry out completely during the active growing season. Water in the morning to allow the foliage to dry by nightfall.

Humidity: The ideal humidity range is 40-80%. In a home environment, placing the pot on a tray of moist pebbles can help raise local humidity. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Fertiliser: Fertilise every two weeks during the active growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced orchid fertiliser (e.g., 20-20-20 at half strength if in a bark mix). Reduce feeding to once a month during the winter. Flush the pot with plain water once a month to prevent salt buildup.

Potting: Repot every two to three years in a well-draining orchid mix, such as a coarse bark and perlite mix. Repot after the blooming period in the spring or early summer.