Habitat and Ecology
Maxillaria lehmannii is a large, impressive epiphytic or terrestrial orchid native to the Andes of Western Ecuador and Peru. It is found in wet montane cloud forests on steep embankments and tree trunks at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 metres. This species is often cited as a distinct western slope counterpart to the widely distributed M. grandiflora. Its habitat is characterised by high humidity, frequent mist, and a cool-to-warm temperature regime, where it is exposed to filtered light and good air movement.
Description
This is a large-sized, robust orchid that forms imposing clumps of flattened, elliptical pseudobulbs, which are enclosed at the base by several leaf-bearing sheaths. Each mature pseudobulb carries a single, apical, linear, leathery leaf. It is celebrated for its very large flowers (up to 10 cm or more across), which are typically borne singly on short stems emerging from the base of the pseudobulbs. The blooms have rigid, spreading floral segments, primarily creamy-white to pale yellow, often heavily spotted or mottled with dark red-brown or burgundy on the petals and sepals. The lip (labellum) is usually white or pale, with striking, complex red or purple markings and a ridged surface, contributing to the flower's 'jawbone' appearance (the genus name Maxillaria refers to this feature). The flowers are long-lasting and often fragrant.
Cultivation
Maxillaria lehmannii is an intermediate to cool-growing orchid that requires bright light and ample moisture, making it best suited for a cool conservatory or orchid greenhouse in the UK. It requires moderate, filtered light, similar to that needed by Coelogyne species, but must be protected from direct, scorching midday sun. Use an open, free-draining, medium-grade orchid mix of bark, perlite, and coir or a minimal amount of synthetic peat. The substrate must be kept evenly moist during the active growth period, allowing it to approach dryness at the surface but never completely drying out, as this can lead to pleated leaves and shrivelled pseudobulbs. High humidity (70%+) is preferred, alongside brisk air circulation.
Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-24 C (64-75 F)
Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A cool rest is vital, ideally 14-16 C (57-61 F).
Feed regularly (monthly) during the growing season with a balanced liquid orchid feed.
Unique Features
This Maxillaria is highly prized for its monumental flower size (among the largest in the genus) and its rigid, complex, spotted blooms that often appear in late winter to early spring. As a western Andean species with minimal variation, its consistent large flower form makes it a highly desirable collector's piece. The long-lasting, fragrant flowers and robust, clump-forming habit make a mature specimen a spectacular display.
Specifications
Plant Size: Flowering sized plants, 3-5 adult bulbs.
Plant Family: Orchidaceae
Plant Passport: A Maxillaria lehmannii B 140084 C [buyer input - use number on plant label] D GB
