Habitat and Ecology
​Sobralia fimbriata is a terrestrial or sometimes epiphytic orchid native to the Andes of South America, with a distribution spanning Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Venezuela, and possibly extending into Central America. It is found in lower montane and wet forests in scattered populations, typically at elevations between 500 and 2,150 metres. It grows among dense grasses, on steep embankments, or on mossy rocks, thriving in climates with high humidity and warm, wet summers followed by somewhat drier, cooler periods. 
 
​Description
​This is a medium to large-sized, reed-stemmed orchid known for its beautiful, ephemeral flowers. The plant forms large, bushy clumps of slender, erect, cane-like stems (up to 1-2 metres tall) that are clothed in plicate (pleated), firm, leathery leaves along their length. The flowers emerge successively, usually 1 to 3 at a time, from the apex of the cane in late spring and summer. The blooms are large, typically 5-7 cm across, and are white, cream, or pale yellow. The petals and sepals are characteristically undulate (wavy) and fringed (fimbriate)—a key feature indicated by its species name. The large, trumpet-shaped lip is strongly fringed and often marked with yellow or subtle purple colouration in the throat. Although the individual flowers last only a day, the plant often produces a succession of blooms over many weeks, and the flowers are sweetly fragrant.  
​Cultivation
​Sobralia fimbriata is a warm-to-intermediate growing orchid best suited for cultivation in a large pot or tub in a conservatory or warm greenhouse in the UK. It requires bright, filtered light; too little light will lead to lush foliage but poor flowering. Use a heavy, organic, and moisture-retentive terrestrial orchid mix composed of fine bark, leaf mould, and coir or synthetic peat, ensuring perfect drainage. Sobralias are heavy drinkers during the growing season; the substrate should be kept consistently moist—it is difficult to overwater these provided drainage is excellent. High humidity (60-80%) is preferred, along with good air circulation.  
​Optimal Daytime Temperature (Growing Season): 21-28 C (70-82 F)  
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: 15-20 C (59-68 F).  
​Feed heavily with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the spring/summer growing season. Avoid repotting unless absolutely necessary as they resent root disturbance.  
​Unique Features
​This orchid is highly sought after for its architectural, reed-like growth habit and its large, uniquely fringed and sweetly fragrant flowers. While the individual blooms are short-lived (ephemeral), the ability of a mature specimen to produce a succession of these spectacular, wavy-petalled flowers throughout the summer months makes it a rewarding and highly decorative specimen, often creating a breathtaking floral display in a greenhouse setting.  
​Specifications
​Plant Size: please refer to picture
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae  
​Plant Passport: A Sobralia fimbriata B 140084 C [user input] D GB