Name: Phragmipedium humboldtii 'Fortuna' × Phragmipedium Peruflora's Cirila Alca
Etymology: Phragmipedium (from the Greek
phragma = partition/fence and
pedilon = shoe/sandal, referring to the three-chambered partition of the ovary and the slipper-shaped lip);
humboldtii (named in honor of the eminent German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt);
Peruflora's Cirila Alca (the registered name of this hybrid, dedicated to Cirila Alca of the Peruvian orchid grower Peruflora).
Origin / Distribution: Cultivar. The parent species (Phragmipedium humboldtii and the species represented in the hybrid Peruflora's Cirila Alca, such as P. kovachii and P. dalessandroi) are native to the humid montane forests and river valleys of Central and South America.
Location / Habitat: Growing epiphytically, lithophytically or terrestrially. After deflasking, it requires intermediate to warm-intermediate conditions, a partially shaded to bright location without direct, intense midday sun, high humidity of approximately 70–85%, and steady, gentle air circulation. The growing medium should be kept evenly moist, without becoming waterlogged.
Description & Notes: This highly interesting hybrid combines the imposing elegance of Phragmipedium humboldtii 'Fortuna' with the vividly colored, large-flowered genes of Phragmipedium Peruflora's Cirila Alca. The parent P. humboldtii is known for its exceptionally long, twisted petals and majestic floral silhouette. Phragmipedium Peruflora's Cirila Alca (a primary hybrid of P. kovachii and P. dalessandroi) contributes vigorous growth, broader flower segments, and intense magenta and red tones. The seedlings promise vigorous plants with spectacular, large-format flowers, showcasing a fascinating interplay of pronounced petal length, substantial substance, and vivid color gradients ranging from rosy magenta to rich brown and green tones. After being deflasked, the young plants thrive in pots with a fine, moisture-retentive substrate mix of pine bark, sphagnum moss, and pumice.
In vitro culture: You will receive a flask containing 4 young plants. The plants are generally already large enough to be deflasked. After opening the flask, carefully remove all the nutrient medium from the roots using lukewarm water, then plant the seedlings in a fine, airy yet moisture-retentive substrate. For the first few weeks, we recommend very high humidity, intermediate conditions, and bright but sheltered light with gentle air movement. Keep the substrate evenly moist and do not allow the young plants to dry out completely.
