Brassavola perrinii

Brassavola's tubular leaves are engineered to limit water transpiration, making it drought resistant compared to many other orchids. As a result, unlike many other epiphytic orchids, the plants require less humidity and less frequent watering. Brassavola orchids are susceptible to chlorine and other contaminants in tap water, therefore use chlorine-free water when watering.

Brassavola orchids love moderate to warm temperatures and will bloom more abundantly at the higher end of the temperature range. Daytime temperatures should be between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with nighttime temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, or the plant will not flower.

Feed your orchid with a mild fertilizer solution all year (quarter-strength weekly). Many growers make "fertilizer balls" out of nylon hose and controlled-release pellets, then tie the pellet ball around the plant to provide a little dose of fertilizer every time it is watered. Nylon fertilizer balls have a short lifespan.

Trim the spike only a modest amount if it is still green and healthy. Find the node beneath the lowest bloom and cut one inch below it. Cut back to the plant's root if the spike has become brown and mushy.

While most domestic orchids are non-toxic, Brassavola orchids are slightly hazardous. They have the potential to produce contact dermatitis and other minor cutaneous responses.