Sarcochilus hartmannii 'SS 1' × 'SS 2'

Sarcochilus hartmannii 'SS 1' × 'SS 2' is a sibling cross — both parents are selected clones of Sarcochilus hartmannii, the most widely grown Sarcochilus species in Australian cultivation. Native to the granite ranges of southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, hartmannii is a lithophytic species that grows on exposed rock faces at altitude. It is valued for its clean white flowers with variable red-to-maroon central markings, its tolerance of cool conditions, and its reliable annual flowering. A sibling cross of two selected clones concentrates the species' best traits while allowing natural variation across the seedling batch. The photographs show the parent plants. Individual seedlings will vary in marking density, pattern, and form.

What to expect

• Flowering: Spring to early summer. Short upright to arching spikes carrying multiple flowers held clear of the foliage.
• Flowers: White with red to maroon central markings. Pattern density and distribution will vary across individual seedlings — some plants may show heavy spotting, others minimal. Both parents are selected for quality markings.
• Plant: Compact lithophytic Sarcochilus. Spreading root system suited to pot culture in a coarse mix or mounted on rock or cork. Supplied in an 80mm pot as an established seedling.

Growing notes

• Temperature: Cool to cold-tolerant. In habitat grows on exposed granite at altitude — one of the most cold-hardy Sarcochilus species. Well-suited to outdoor growing in southern Australia including cool highlands.
• Light: Bright filtered to bright open shade. Tolerates more light than most Sarcochilus. Avoid direct summer midday sun.
• Water: Keep evenly moist through spring and summer. Can tolerate slightly drier conditions in winter than other Sarcochilus species, reflecting its exposed rocky habitat, but do not allow to desiccate.
• Feeding: Balanced fertiliser through spring and summer at reduced strength. Good air movement is important.

Shipping & condition

Supplied in an 80mm pot as an established seedling. Not yet flowered. Ships from the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria.