Ceratochilus Biglandulosus

Ceratochilus biglandulosus (syn. Trichoglottis biglandulosa), endemic to Java, Indonesia, is an exquisite miniature monopodial epiphytic orchid famed for its disproportionately large, crystalline white flowers with green lips atop tiny plants—perfect for terrariums and advanced collectors seeking prolific bloomers.​

Detailed Description and Characteristics

This compact subshrub grows to 5-10 cm tall on slender, pendulous stems (up to 8 cm) with alternating, thick leathery leaves (2-3 cm long, semi-terete or oblong, dark green). Flowers emerge sequentially from leaf axils: single or paired, waxy white blooms (2.5-3.5 cm across) with five petals, green lip, and distinctive two glands on the column (hence “biglandulosus”); fragrant, lasting 1-2 weeks. Fine roots cling to mossy substrates; slow but steady upward growth.​

Origin and Habitat

Endemic to higher montane cloud forests (1000-2000m) on Java, Indonesia; epiphytic on moss- and lichen-covered trees in humid, shaded, misty environments with constant moisture. Cool-intermediate conditions prevail; threatened by habitat loss in tropical wet biome.​

Cultivation Guide

Best indoor lighting setup: Bright indirect (east window with sheer curtain or LED grow lights 10,000-20,000 lux, 6500K full-spectrum, 12-14 hours/day at 40-60 cm); partial shade mimics cloud forest—leaves yellow if too bright. Temperature: Cool-intermediate, 15-24°C days/12-18°C nights (tolerates 22-33°C summer peaks). Humidity: 70-90% (humidifier essential, mist 2x daily). Water: Regular year-round (daily mounted, 3x/week potted), never dry out. Fertilizer: Weak balanced orchid formula (1/4 strength 20-20-20) weekly, reduce cooler months. Potting mix: Mount on cork bark/fern slabs or use 70% live sphagnum/20% charcoal/10% perlite in 7 cm pots/gravel; shallow slatted baskets for airflow. Repot rarely (2-3 years).​

Blooming Time and Propagation

Blooms frequently year-round (peaks May-October), often sequential from multiple axils for continuous display. Propagate by stem cuttings (top 2-3 nodes in sphagnum, high humidity) or division; seed flasking slow (lab required).​

Specialties, Uses, and Special Care

Specialty: “Impossible” oversized waxy white flowers on micro-plants thrill in vivariums; named for column glands. Ornamental only—no medicinal/economic uses noted. Special care: Excellent airflow prevents rot; stable cool temps boost flowering; watch spider mites in dry air; forgiving once rooted but hates root disturbance.​