🌸 Tolumnia 'Purple Speckles' Care Sheet (Closed Terrarium Setup)
A dazzling miniature orchid with butterfly-like blooms and bold purple speckling—perfect for bright, airy terrarium displays.
🔍 Quick Info
Type: Miniature epiphytic orchid (Oncidiinae)
Size: 5–12 cm tall
Flowers: Purple or magenta with speckles or blotches; blooms on wiry, upright spikes
Bloom Season: Spring and summer (can bloom more than once/year)
Growth Habit: Fan-shaped, with thin roots and pseudobulbs
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Day Temp: 22–30°C
Night Temp: 16–20°C
Humidity: 60–80%
✅ Suitable for closed terrariums only if airflow is present
💨 Tolumnias require a drying period—airflow is non-negotiable
💡 Light
Requirement: Bright, filtered or indirect light
Natural Light: East- or north-facing window
Artificial: LED grow light (10–14 hours/day)
⚠️ Needs more light than most terrarium orchids—lean toward brighter setups
💧 Watering
Method: Soak roots, then allow to fully dry
Frequency: 2–3× per week during warm months, 1–2× during cooler periods
✅ Follow a wet-dry cycle
❌ Never allow roots to stay wet—very rot-prone
🌱 Potting & Mounting
Best Method: Mounted on cork or driftwood with minimal moss
Optional: Small mesh basket with coarse bark or LECA
✅ Needs excellent drainage and airflow around roots
❌ Avoid fine media or compact pots
🌬️ Air Circulation
Critical for survival
Add a mini USB fan or open the terrarium lid 2–3× per week
Prevents root rot, fungal spots, and encourages blooming
🌿 Feeding
Fertilizer: Diluted orchid feed (1/4 strength)
Schedule: Once a week during growth
Flush: Once a month with pure water to remove salts
⚠️ Terrarium Tips
Do not treat like moss-dwelling orchids—Tolumnias are closer to mounted cacti in their watering needs
Position close to the light source in the terrarium
Avoid overcrowding or stagnant conditions
Remove dry or dead growths to encourage fresh fans
✅ Best For
Bright terrariums with controlled humidity and airflow
Growers who enjoy hands-on watering routines
Orchid collectors looking for bold, speckled mini blooms