These are plug sized
🍃 Stelis hirtzii Terrarium Care Sheet (Vented Setup)
Overview:
Stelis hirtzii is a miniature epiphytic orchid from Ecuador's cool, misty cloud forests. It’s a member of the Pleurothallidinae and thrives in humid, shaded environments with constant moisture and airflow—making it an excellent candidate for a vented or open terrarium.📏 Size & Growth Habit
Type: Miniature epiphytic orchid (Pleurothallidinae)
Mature Size: 6–12 cm tall
Growth Habit: Clumping, with short stems and rounded, leathery leaves
Inflorescence: Tiny, clustered flowers on short upright spikes near the leaf base
💡 Light Requirements
Light Level: Low to medium
Lux Range: 6,000–12,000 lux (600–1,100 foot-candles)
Placement: North- or east-facing window, or under low-output grow lights (e.g. T5 or soft-spectrum LEDs)
Caution: Avoid direct sun—leaves will scorch quickly
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Daytime Temps: 18–23°C
Nighttime Temps: 12–16°C
Humidity: 80–95%
Airflow: Essential to prevent fungal/bacterial problems
Vents or small fans recommended
Crack open the lid daily if no active airflow system is present
💧 Watering & Moisture
Watering Frequency: 4–5 times per week or daily in warm/dry conditions
Water Type: Rainwater, distilled, or reverse osmosis only—sensitive roots
Moisture Preference: Roots should stay moist but not soggy
Misting: Light morning misting is beneficial; avoid soaking the crown
🌱 Mounting & Medium
Preferred Setup:
Mounted on cork, tree fern, or driftwood with a pad of sphagnum moss
OR in a net pot with fine bark, sphagnum, and perlite
Drainage Layer (in terrarium): Use LECA or gravel with a mesh platform to keep roots above pooled water
Important: Ensure some evaporation from the base to maintain high humidity
🌬 Airflow
Critical for long-term success:
Passive airflow through terrarium vents is minimum
Ideally, install miniature fans or leave lid ajar daily
Never allow warm, humid, stagnant air—leads to leaf yellowing and rot
🌸 Flowering & Growth
Bloom Habit: Year-round with proper care
Flowers: Tiny, usually reddish-purple or brownish, in tight inflorescences
Rest Period: None—grows continuously in stable conditions
🌿 Fertilizer
Type: Weak, balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 1/8–1/4 strength)
Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks during active growth
Flushing: Flush with clean water monthly to prevent salt buildup
⚠️ Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf tip browning | Salt buildup or low humidity | Use purer water; increase humidity |
| Rotting crown or roots | Poor airflow or stagnant water | Improve drainage and air movement |
| No flowering | Light too low or excessive nitrogen | Adjust light levels and reduce nitrogen % |
✅ Terrarium Tips
Ideal for cool/intermediate cloud forest-style terrariums
Excellent when grown alongside moss, ferns, and other Pleurothallids
Use live moss or moisture-retentive substrate to help with microclimate stability
Handle gently—fine roots and small leaves are delicate