Habitat and Ecology
​Dracula woolwardiae is a small-to-medium-sized, caespitose (clump-forming) epiphytic orchid native to Western and Central Ecuador. It is found in dense montane cloud forests on the western slopes of the Andes mountains at high elevations, typically ranging from 1,200 to 1,850 metres. This species is a true cool grower, thriving in an environment defined by constant, dense fog and high humidity, low-to-moderate light, and very cool night temperatures. Like all Dracula species, it lacks pseudobulbs, relying entirely on continuous atmospheric moisture.
​Description
​This orchid is a perennial herb that lacks pseudobulbs, producing tufts of thin, erect stems (ramicauls) enveloped by sheaths, each bearing a single, apical, erect, and plicate (pleated) leaf. The plant is famous for its bizarre and intricate flowers, which give the genus its name, meaning 'little dragon'. The blooms are typically large for the size of the plant, often measuring 10 cm by 17.5 cm (including the sepals' long tails). The flowers emerge on pendent spikes from the base of the plant. The sepals are triangular, diffusely spotted, and covered in fine, delicate hairs (pubescence), terminating in long, slender tails. The colour is typically a striking combination of green, brown, and red, with the column and fleshy lip being highly detailed and uniquely patterned. The lip is often described as more orbicular (rounded) than in similar species, and the flowers are sometimes fragrant.
​Cultivation
​Dracula woolwardiae is a demanding cool-growing orchid that is considered challenging and requires an unheated cool greenhouse or specialised orchidarium in the UK. It is intolerant of high heat and low humidity. It must be grown in a slatted basket or wire pot lined with sphagnum moss to allow the pendent flower spikes to emerge from the bottom. Provide heavy shade to moderate, filtered light; the leaves should always feel cool to the touch. The medium (pure long-fibre sphagnum moss or fine bark/moss mix) must be kept consistently moist to wet at all times; it should never dry out.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-22 C (64-72 F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: Cool-to-cold temperatures are essential for survival and blooming, ideally 12-14 C (54-57 F).
​Very high humidity (75-90%) and strong, constant air circulation are mandatory. Water with tepid, soft water (rainwater or reverse osmosis water). Feed very lightly (quarter-strength) during the growing season.
​Unique Features
​This is a true connoisseur's orchid, highly sought after for its bizarre, detailed, and large flowers that famously hang beneath the plant. Its delicate, hairy sepals and unique patterning, combined with the stringent requirement for cool, misty conditions, make it a rewarding but challenging plant to master. Successfully blooming a Dracula species is a pinnacle achievement for the cool-growing orchid enthusiast.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: plants with 5 plus ramicauls/growths
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Dracula woolwardiae B 140084 C [user input] D GB