{"product_id":"maxillaria-variabilis-yellow","title":"Maxillaria variabilis var. unipunctata - almond scent, XL specimens","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaxillaria variabilis var. unipunctata \"Yellow\"\u003c\/strong\u003e is valued for its yellow flower, often with a contrasting central accent, and for the almond fragrance frequently mentioned in this form.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eAbout the species\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaxillaria variabilis\u003c\/strong\u003e is a miniature botanical species from Mexico, Central America, and northwest South America. It can grow epiphytically, lithophytically, or terrestrially in forests, meadows, and on isolated trees, at approximate altitudes of 500-2,500 m. Synonyms include \u003cem\u003eMaxillariella variabilis\u003c\/em\u003e and, for some forms, \u003cem\u003eMaxillaria variabilis var. unipunctata\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe plant has small pseudobulbs connected by a branched rhizome, each topped with a narrow leaf. Flowers often appear throughout the year at the base of the pseudobulbs and are generally about 2 cm. The species is sought after precisely for its color variation: almost black, violet, red, yellow, or white, sometimes with contrasting central spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eLight and temperature\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvide moderate, well-diffused light without strong afternoon sun. Approximately 18,000-30,000 lux can support growth and flowering. Daytime temperatures of 25-28°C, with slightly cooler nights, are suitable during the growth period; ventilation is especially helpful in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eWatering, substrate, and rest\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eUse a pot with many drainage holes and an airy substrate: medium-grade bark, coconut fiber, perlite, or pumice. Water moderately to abundantly during growth, then allow the substrate to partially dry. In winter, reduce watering and stop fertilizing, but do not let the plant dry out completely for long periods. Repot when the substrate decomposes or new roots appear.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eFertilization\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eFertilize diluted, about 25-50% of the package dose, only during active growth. Periodically flush the substrate to limit salt buildup.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eFlowering and plant form\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaxillaria variabilis remains small, usually between 4 and 21 cm, but gradually spreads through its rhizome. Pseudobulbs are protected by fine sheaths, and flowers emerge individually from their base. This branched growth makes a mature specimen look fuller year after year, without reaching the size of a Cattleya or a Cymbidium.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFlowering can occur at various times of the year. Light, growth rate, and acclimation after transport influence flowering more than a fixed calendar. Flowers have a glossy, almost waxy appearance, and lighter varieties may have a red or spotted labellum.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eSubstrate and container\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe container must allow quick water drainage: a pot with side perforations, a basket, or a vessel with many holes works better than one without drainage. In the substrate, you can combine medium-grade conifer bark with coconut fiber, perlite, pumice, or charcoal. The goal is not a rigid recipe but a mix that retains little moisture without blocking air among the roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRepot when the substrate decomposes, the plant becomes unstable, or new roots appear. Do not unnecessarily disturb the rhizome or cut healthy pseudobulbs just to get more divisions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3 style=\"font-size:1.05em;line-height:1.35;margin:1.45em 0 .5em\"\u003eSeasonal rhythm\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrom late spring to early autumn, the plant may consume more water, especially in good light. In winter, lower light and temperatures slow substrate drying: reduce watering and stop fertilizing, but do not let roots and pseudobulbs go without water for very long periods.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMorning misting can supplement humidity under certain conditions but does not replace watering the roots and should not leave foliage wet overnight. Ventilation remains important year-round.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e the received specimen may or may not have flowers, depending on its natural development stage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Secret Garden Plant Shop","offers":[{"title":"with flowers\/buds - 9 cm pot","offer_id":41091039461574,"sku":null,"price":25.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0558\/5551\/3798\/files\/70CE5FAF-F341-473B-A173-6B21747806C3.jpg?v=1771535930","url":"https:\/\/sicretgarden.com\/en-de\/products\/maxillaria-variabilis-yellow","provider":"Secret Garden Plant Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}