Scarlet lady's tresses (Dichromanthus cinnabarinus)

Also known as: Cinnabar Star Orchid

Dichromanthus cinnabarinus is found in Mexico, Guatemala, and Texas, USA. Often referred to as "scarlet lady's tresses" due to its vivid scarlet flowers, this orchid is especially notable for its striking appearance and typically thrives in mountainous regions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Scarlet lady's tresses

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 cm to 90 cm

Spread

N/A - single stemmed

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-4 cm

Flower Color

Orange

Images of Scarlet lady's tresses

Quickly Identify Scarlet lady's tresses

Dichromanthus cinnabarinus can be identified by its bright red flowers, which have a distinctive cinnabar hue. The leaves are linear and grass-like, which is common among ground orchids.

Scientific Classification of Scarlet lady's tresses

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagales

Family

Orchid

Genus

Dichromanthus

Species

Scarlet lady's tresses

Planting and Growing of Scarlet lady's tresses

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Scarlet lady's tresses?

For Dichromanthus cinnabarinus, ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged with about 150ml of water. Water slowly until you see a slight moisture on the surface, ensuring the water penetrates to the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Scarlet lady's tresses? ›

What should I do if my Scarlet lady's tresses is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Scarlet lady's tresses? ›

How to save an overwatered Scarlet lady's tresses? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Scarlet lady's tresses?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun conditions provide the perfect balance of light for Dichromanthus cinnabarinus. This ensures robust flowering and prevents leaf burn, supporting a healthy growing environment.

What lighting does Dichromanthus cinnabarinus thrive in? ›

How can I ensure ideal lighting conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Scarlet lady's tresses?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

For Dichromanthus cinnabarinus to thrive, it should be cultivated in environments where temperatures remain consistently between 68°F and 77°F. This range mimics its natural habitat conditions, providing optimal energy for photosynthesis and metabolic functions.

What Soil is Best for Scarlet lady's tresses?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Dichromanthus cinnabarinus thrives in well-draining soils to prevent root rot. Good drainage ensures the plant's roots have access to necessary oxygen and reduces the risk of stagnation, promoting healthier growth and more vibrant blooms. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil that can support its growth cycle. Soils enriched with organic matter and essential minerals provide the resources needed for robust foliage and flowering stages. This species prefers a light and airy soil texture. Loam and sandy loam soils provide an ideal balance of air circulation and support for root systems, enabling better nutrient absorption and root expansion.

How to Fertilize Scarlet lady's tresses?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Dichromanthus cinnabarinus, it is crucial to apply the right amount of fertilizer to avoid root burn or nutrient deficiencies. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half its strength, about 10 mL per liter of water. For solid fertilizers, adhere to the manufacturer's instructions, typically not exceeding 5 grams per plant per application.

How to Prune Scarlet lady's tresses?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

To prune Dichromanthus cinnabarinus, begin by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent disease. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems at the base of the plant. Focus on thinning out crowded areas to enhance air circulation and ensure that sunlight reaches the lower parts of the plant. Cut at a slight angle to promote proper healing. Maintain the natural shape of Dichromanthus cinnabarinus by gently trimming overgrown sections. Be careful not to remove more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time. This gradual approach helps the plant recover quickly and maintains its aesthetic appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Scarlet lady's tresses plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Begin by preparing a well-draining soil mix, ensuring it is slightly acidic to replicate the plant's natural habitat. This step is crucial for promoting healthy growth.

Carefully remove the plant from its pot and divide the root ball into sections using a sterilized knife. Each section should have healthy roots and foliage.

Place seeds in a germination tray filled with your prepared soil mix, covering them lightly. Ensure the tray is positioned in a warm, bright area but not in direct sunlight.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Scarlet lady's tresses plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Dichromanthus cinnabarinus should be repotted when you start noticing roots growing out of the drainage holes or when the growth appears stunted. Another good indicator is when the soil's quality deteriorates and doesn't drain as efficiently as before. These signs typically suggest that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more room to thrive.

Choosing the right pot for Dichromanthus cinnabarinus is crucial. Opt for a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball to prevent excess soil moisture. A pot with ample drainage holes is essential to ensure water doesn't remain around the roots, as this plant prefers to stay relatively dry between waterings. This helps in promoting healthy root growth and prevents rot.

Using a well-draining orchid mix is preferable for Dichromanthus cinnabarinus. This kind of soil provides excellent aeration for the roots, preventing water from accumulating and causing root rot. The mix should have components like bark, perlite, or charcoal, which help maintain appropriate moisture levels while supporting the plant's epiphytic nature.