Fdk. After Dark 'SVO Black Pearl' FCC/AOS
Fredclarkeara is another artificial genus produced by breeding Catasetum, Clowesia and Mormodes, a three way cross. This group of orchids is again an interesting breeding combination producing multiple flowers, vigorous growth and the possibility of flowering three to four times a year. Typically, their now trigger-less flowers have a flower life that is longer than for pure Catasetums, some up to 6 weeks.
When hybridizing between three genera, the work is more difficult with lower success rate in germination.
Fredclarkeara are heavy feeders during their growing period but a dry rest period of differing lengths according to species is needed after flowering, specifically, once the plants start to drop leaves. Water is gradually reduced, then withheld. If at all, water sparingly only to prevent pseudobulbs from shrinking too much. Once new growth reaches 4 inches and new roots reach 2 or more inches long, watering is begun, with normal abundant watering taking place once the potting mix again approaches dryness. Fertilize well during the active growing season as the plant does not get a chance to be fertilized during its dry rest period. Fredclarkeara like humidity of 50-70% with warm day temperatures of 75-80 F (24-27 C) dropping 10-15 F (6-8 C) at night. Repot just as new growth is beginning at the end of the dry rest.