Name: Phragmipedium Predator × 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);
Predator (registered name of this hybrid, symbolically referring to the imposing, dynamic silhouette of its flower);
Peruflora's Cirila Alca (registered name of this hybrid, dedicated to Cirila Alca of the Peruvian orchid nursery Peruflora).
Origin / Distribution: Cultivar. The species represented in its parent hybrids (such as Phragmipedium sargentianum, P. lindleyanum, P. kovachii and P. dalessandroi) originate from the humid montane forests and river valleys of Central and South America.
Location / Habitat: Terrestrial to lithophytic. After deflasking, it requires intermediate to warm-intermediate conditions, a bright location with plenty of indirect light (no direct, intense midday sun), high humidity of around 70–85%, and continuous, gentle air circulation. The substrate should be kept evenly moist, without harmful waterlogging.
Description & Notes: This highly interesting cross combines the impressive flower size and rich, darker hues of Phragmipedium Predator with the intense magenta coloration and broad flower segments of Phragmipedium Peruflora's Cirila Alca (a valued primary hybrid of P. kovachii and P. dalessandroi). The seedlings promise vigorous, healthy plants with spectacular, large flowers. In terms of color genetics, the offspring can be expected to display a fascinating range, from deep berry and magenta tones to warm reddish-brown shades, complemented by a waxy flower texture and elegantly shaped petals. After deflasking, the young plants thrive in pots with a moisture-retentive substrate mix of fine 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, carefully remove all the growing medium from the roots with lukewarm water and pot the young plants in a fine, airy substrate that also retains moisture. 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.
