🌸 Sarcochilus hartmanii × Kirra-Lea Care Sheet (Closed Terrarium Setup)
A compact, cool-to-warm tolerant orchid with strong Australian genetics—ideal for bright, humid terrariums.
🔍 Quick Info
Type: Epiphytic hybrid (S. hartmanii × Kirra-Lea)
Growth Habit: Monopodial, compact
Size: 10–15 cm tall
Flowers: White to creamy with red or maroon spotting, often fragrant; blooms in mid to late spring
Parentage Traits:
hartmanii adds compactness and hardiness
Kirra-Lea (a primary or complex Sarco hybrid) contributes floral colour and improved bloom performance
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Day: 20–28°C
Night: 16–20°C
Humidity: 70–90%
✅ Terrarium provides perfect humidity
💨 Ensure some airflow (small fan or weekly lid opening) to prevent fungal disease
💡 Light
Needs: Bright, indirect or filtered light
Natural Light: East- or north-facing windows
Artificial: LED grow lights, 10–12 hrs/day
❌ No direct sun—leaves scorch easily
💧 Watering
Frequency: 2–3× weekly depending on ventilation and substrate
Water Type: RO/distilled/rainwater recommended
✅ Keep substrate evenly moist, but not wet
❌ Avoid water in crown and leaf bases to prevent rot
🌱 Potting or Mounting
Preferred Medium:
Fine bark + sphagnum moss
Optional: LECA or orchiata for increased drainage
Potting Style:
Small net pots or mesh baskets
Mounted only if airflow is excellent
✅ Roots like air and occasional drying at the tips
🌬️ Air Circulation
Critical in enclosed setups
Use a small USB fan or open lid regularly
Helps prevent bacterial rot and improves blooming
🌿 Feeding
Fertilizer: Orchid-safe liquid at 1/4 strength
Schedule: Every 2–3 weeks during growing season
Flush: With clean water monthly to prevent buildup
⚠️ Terrarium Maintenance Tips
Wipe condensation off glass weekly
Prune dead flowers/leaves promptly
Keep an eye out for pests (especially mealybugs)
Remove decaying moss if mold begins to form
✅ Best For
Intermediate orchid growers
Bright terrariums with stable humidity
Collectors seeking hardy hybrids with Australian lineage