Sarcochilus hartmannii 'SS 1' × 'SS 2'

Sarcochilus hartmannii 'SS 1' × 'SS 2' is a sibling cross of two selected clones of Sarcochilus hartmannii, the most widely grown Sarcochilus species in Australian cultivation. It is valued for clean white flowers with variable red-to-maroon central markings, tolerance of cool conditions and reliable annual flowering. This seedling is near flowering size (NFS), so it is close to flowering but not yet at flowering size. The photographs show the parent plants.

About this plant

Sarcochilus hartmannii is native to the granite ranges of southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. It is a lithophyte, growing on exposed rock faces at altitude. Both parents of this cross were selected for quality markings. A sibling cross of two selected clones allows natural variation across the seedling batch, so individual seedlings will vary in marking density, pattern and form. Some plants may show heavy spotting and others minimal.

• Flowers: White with red to maroon central markings.
• Flowering: Spring to early summer. Short spikes, upright to arching, carry multiple flowers held clear of the foliage.
• Plant: Compact lithophytic Sarcochilus with a spreading root system. It suits pot culture in a coarse mix, or mounting on rock or cork.

Growing conditions

• Temperature: Suited to cool to intermediate climates, with a listed range of 5°C to 26°C. It needs cool nights. In habitat it grows on exposed granite at altitude, and it is one of the most cold-hardy Sarcochilus species. It is well suited to outdoor growing in southern Australia, including cool highlands.
• Light: Bright filtered light to bright open shade. It tolerates more light than most Sarcochilus. Avoid direct summer midday sun.
• Humidity and air: Humidity of 60% or higher. Good air movement is important.
• Water: Keep evenly moist through spring and summer. It can tolerate slightly drier conditions in winter than other Sarcochilus species, reflecting its exposed rocky habitat, but do not allow it to desiccate.
• Feeding: Balanced fertiliser through spring and summer at reduced strength.

What you'll receive

One established seedling in an 80mm pot, near flowering size and not yet flowered. Because the photographs show the parent plants, your seedling's flowers may differ from them. Plants ship from the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria.