Habitat:
Maxillaria bradei is native to the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern Brazil, particularly in the states of Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo. It is typically found growing epiphytically in humid montane and submontane forests at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 metres. The species thrives in shaded to semi-shaded environments with high humidity and good air circulation. It often grows on mossy tree trunks and branches, in areas with frequent mist and cloud cover.
Description:
Maxillaria bradei is a compact epiphytic orchid forming dense mats of short rhizomes and closely spaced ovoid pseudobulbs, each about 1.5–2.5 cm tall. Each pseudobulb bears a single, apical, narrowly lanceolate to linear leaf, typically 8–15 cm in length and around 1–1.5 cm wide. The leaves are leathery and slightly arching. Flowers are solitary and borne at the base of the pseudobulbs on short peduncles. Each flower measures approximately 2–2.5 cm in diameter and features a pale yellow to cream background with contrasting reddish or maroon markings on the labellum and occasionally the sepals. The sepals are narrow and slightly spreading, while the petals are smaller and more upright. The labellum is three-lobed and often strongly marked, helping distinguish it from similar species such as Maxillaria picta and Maxillaria marginata, which differ in flower shape and coloration.
Cultivation:
Maxillaria bradei performs best in warm to intermediate temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C and nighttime temperatures between 14°C and 18°C. It requires bright, filtered light and benefits from strong air movement. Humidity should be maintained between 60% and 80%. The species thrives mounted on bark or grown in small pots with a well-draining epiphytic orchid mix of fine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. It prefers slightly acidic conditions, with an optimal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Water regularly during the growing season to keep the medium moist, allowing for slight drying between waterings. In cooler months, reduce watering frequency but do not allow to dry completely. Fertilise every 2–3 weeks using a balanced orchid fertiliser diluted to half strength.
Specifications:
Plant Size: Divisions produced in the UK from our stock plant. As seen in the picture.
Plant Family: Orchidaceae
Plant Passport: Maxillaria bradei B 140084 C [user input] D GB