Habitat and Ecology
​Maxillaria lawrenceana is a desirable epiphytic orchid native to Colombia and North-Western Venezuela. This species is typically found growing on the trunks and branches of trees in its native habitat, which spans a range of elevations, often found in montane cloud forests. As a cool-to-intermediate growing orchid, it thrives in environments that provide bright, filtered light, high humidity, and consistent air movement, absorbing water and nutrients from rainfall and atmospheric moisture.
​Description
​This orchid is a medium-sized, clump-forming epiphyte that grows from a creeping rhizome, producing elliptical, flattened pseudobulbs topped by a single, tough, leathery leaf. The flowers emerge on short, solitary stems from the base of the pseudobulbs. The blooms are typically 2.5-3.5 cm across, and are uniquely coloured. They feature prominent, triangular sepals and petals that are generally a shade of yellowish-green or tawny brown, often heavily streaked or spotted with dark red or purple-brown. The lip (labellum) is typically lighter, with intricate markings. The species is known for blooming in the winter and spring and has a subtle, sweet fragrance.
​Cultivation
​Maxillaria lawrenceana is a cool-to-intermediate growing orchid that does well in a bright conservatory or on a cool, bright windowsill in the UK, provided humidity is maintained. It requires moderate, indirect light (similar to Coelogyne light levels), avoiding harsh, direct sun that can burn its leaves. It should be grown in an open, free-draining epiphytic mix of medium-grade bark, perlite, and a small amount of moss or coir. Mounting the plant is the best way to grow it.  The plant prefers to be kept moist during the active growing period (new growth to flowering), but should be allowed to approach dryness at the surface between waterings.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-24 C (64-75 F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A cooling period is beneficial, ideally 14-16 C (57-61 F).
​High humidity (50-70%) should be maintained, and care must be taken to avoid getting water trapped in the new growths, as this can lead to rot. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced, dilute liquid orchid feed.
​Unique Features
​This Maxillaria species is a favourite among collectors (especially terrarium growers) for its distinctive, unusual colouration—the combination of yellowish-green petals and sepals heavily marked with dark red streaking gives the flower a beautiful, tiger-like appearance. Its winter-to-spring bloom time provides welcome colour when many other orchids are resting. Its robust, clumping growth habit means it quickly forms a handsome specimen in a pot or mounted display.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: Divisions from our stock plant, produced in the UK. Plants are mounted on cork or tree fern and single stem. 15 cm
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Maxillaria lawrenceana B 140084 C [user input] D GB