Orchidaceae
Reed-stem Epidendrum (Epidendrum radicans)
Epidendrum radicans
Easy-to-grow orchid that thrives in bright indirect light with weekly watering and moderate to high humidity. Great for tropical gardens, patios, and sunny windowsills.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
10° - 30°C
50% - 80%
Categories
What is Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Reed-stem Epidendrum (Epidendrum radicans) is a easy-care plant from the Orchidaceae family. Epidendrum radicans, commonly known as the Reed-stem Epidendrum or Crucifix Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid native to Mexico and Central America. It produces vibrant clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers atop tall reed-like stems, forming a cross shape that gives it the name "crucifix orchid."...
Reed-stem Epidendrum grows up to 1.5m, with spread of 45cm, watering every 7 days, 10°C – 30°C, 50–80% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Reed-stem Epidendrum tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Reed-stem Epidendrum is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for Reed-stem Epidendrum?
TLDR: Reed-stem Epidendrum needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 10-30°C with 50-80% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Water every 7 days in warm months, allowing the substrate to nearly dry out between waterings. Reduce to every 14-21 days in cooler seasons.
How Much Light Does Reed-stem Epidendrum Need?
Needs bright indirect light or partial sun — at least 4-6 hours daily. Avoid intense direct summer sun which can scorch the leaves.
What Is the Best Soil for Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Use a well-draining orchid mix: 40% pine bark, 30% charcoal, 20% coconut fiber, 10% perlite. Avoid heavy soils that retain moisture.
What Pot Should You Use for Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Clay or plastic pot with generous drainage holes. Basket or slatted pots are ideal to allow good air circulation around the roots.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 14 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 1095 days
What Is Reed-stem Epidendrum and Where Does It Come From?
Epidendrum radicans, commonly known as the Reed-stem Epidendrum or Crucifix Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid native to Mexico and Central America. It produces vibrant clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers atop tall reed-like stems, forming a cross shape that gives it the name "crucifix orchid." It is one of the most adaptable and beginner-friendly orchids available.
How to Propagate Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Clump Division
Divide in spring before the flowering period. Use sterilized tools to prevent infection.
- 1 Carefully remove the plant from its pot
- 2 Identify pseudobulbs with healthy roots
- 3 Divide into groups of at least 3 pseudobulbs using sterilized scissors
- 4 Plant each division in fresh orchid substrate
- 5 Keep lightly moist until rooted
Materials needed:
Keiki Propagation
Do not remove the keiki before roots are well developed. Patience ensures better success rates.
- 1 Wait for the keiki (plantlet) to develop 3-5 cm roots
- 2 Cut the keiki close to the main stem with sterilized scissors
- 3 Plant in appropriate orchid substrate
- 4 Keep in a humid spot with indirect light
Materials needed:
How Big Does Reed-stem Epidendrum Grow?
TLDR: Reed-stem Epidendrum can reach up to 1.5m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
1.5m
Spread
45cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Reed-stem Epidendrum?
TLDR: Reed-stem Epidendrum is susceptible to 7 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease caused by various pathogens including Alternaria, Ascochyta, Colletotrichum, Septoria, and Venturia. It primarily affects leaves, causing discolored spots that can lead to premature leaf drop if left untreated.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Meaning & Symbolism
Symbol of resilience and tropical beauty; the cross-shaped flower clusters inspired its name "Crucifix Orchid" across cultures.
Fun Facts
Despite being called a terrestrial orchid, it can also be grown epiphytically on logs or in hanging baskets
Its cross-shaped flower clusters inspired the name Crucifix Orchid across many cultures
It is often confused with Epidendrum secundum, but E. radicans has distinctive adventitious roots along the stem
It can bloom continuously for months, making it one of the longest-blooming orchids available
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Reed-stem Epidendrum?
Is Epidendrum radicans toxic to cats and dogs?
What light does the Crucifix Orchid need?
How often does the Crucifix Orchid bloom?
When should I repot Epidendrum radicans?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Lily | Easy | Low light | 4d | ⚠️ |
| Swiss Cheese Plant | Easy | Partial shade | 10d | ⚠️ |
| Golden Pothos | Easy | Low light | 8d | ⚠️ |
| ZZ Plant | Easy | Low light | 18d | ⚠️ |
