Stanhopea tigrina – The Exotic Tiger Orchid of Mexico

Stanhopea tigrina – The Exotic Tiger Orchid of Mexico

Stanhopea tigrina is a mesmerising epiphytic orchid native to the cloud forests of eastern and southern Mexico. Renowned for its bold, tiger-striped flowers and intense fragrance, this orchid belongs to a genus famed for producing some of the most visually dramatic and short-lived blooms in the orchid world. Its captivating blossoms are not only ornamental but also evolved to attract specific pollinators with surgical precision.

Distinctive Features

• Spectacular flowers: Large, pendant blooms marked with intricate maroon spots and stripes, reminiscent of a tiger’s coat.
• Powerful scent: Emits a strong, sweet, spicy fragrance that can fill an entire room when in bloom.
• Unique blooming habit: Flowers emerge downward through the bottom of hanging baskets, requiring open or slatted containers for proper display.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
• Water: Keep consistently moist during the growing season, allowing for slight drying between waterings in winter.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity levels, ideally above 60%, especially during active growth.
• Media: Use a loose, airy mix such as bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite to ensure excellent drainage.
• Temperature: Thrives in intermediate to warm conditions; 15–27°C is optimal.
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced orchid fertiliser fortnightly during the growing season; reduce in winter.
• Repotting: Only when necessary, preferably after flowering; use baskets or slatted wooden containers to accommodate pendant inflorescences.

Additional Notes

• Flowers are short-lived, lasting only 3–5 days, but are truly remarkable in appearance and fragrance.
• Non-toxic to pets, but should still be kept out of reach to avoid damage to delicate blooms.
• Pollinated in nature by euglossine bees attracted to the intense scent compounds.

Stanhopea tigrina offers an extraordinary addition to any orchid collection, combining exotic visual flair with an unforgettable aroma. Though its floral display is fleeting, the anticipation of its blooming cycle and the sheer drama it brings make this orchid a true horticultural gem.