Spicy Fragrance, Easy to Grow, Floriferous Charles M Fitch Izumi Plant

Decades ago, Charles M. Fitch was a well-known photographer of orchids, and at least one orchid, the Aliceara Marfitch, was named after him. This hybrid, particularly the 'Izumi' cultivar, has become quite popular as it is a dominating orchid. A blooming-size plant is quite substantial, producing a large inflorescence with many flower buds that open up into star-shaped flowers almost the size of one's hand. The purple coloration is very distinctive, and the leopard spots enhance the appearance of the blooms. The most striking feature, however, is the unmistakable spicy fragrance.

The SD1 (SMALL SEEDLING) size plants being offered are about 18 to 24 months from reaching Blooming Size. They are easy to grow but will require patience. The plants come in 2.25-inch pots and do not need to be repotted for at least 12 months. They can thrive in bright shady conditions, with indoor temperatures working fine. Faster growth can be achieved by keeping them humid, such as under a humidity dome if growing them indoors.

This hybrid is very easy to grow, but it is important to avoid temperatures below 50°F. The plants are not in bud or bloom when shipped. The SD2 size plants are large seedlings, about two years from Blooming Size, while the Near Blooming Size (NBS) plants are about 12 to 18 months from Blooming Size. The Blooming Size (BS) plants are of a size capable of blooming at the next blooming season.

Some members of the Odontoglossum group, such as this Miltassia Charles M Fitch, may have spots on the leaves, especially on the tips, or some wrinkles on the bulbs. This is completely normal for these types of orchids and does not mean the plant is unhealthy or diseased.

To grow these orchids successfully, follow these steps: 1) Provide bright shady conditions, avoiding direct sun; 2) Water once to twice a week during the growing season, allowing the media to dry between waterings; 3) Use chunky bark for plenty of aeration at the roots; 4) Fertilize twice a month; and 5) Avoid temperatures below 50°F, keeping the plants well-watered in high heat.

It is important to carefully review the photos to understand the condition and size of the plants being offered. The SD2 size plants are large seedlings, while the NBS plants are near Blooming Size, and the BS plants are capable of blooming at the next blooming season.

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