While researching this orchid species, I discovered that Maxillaria variabilis lives up to its name. Also known as the Variable Orchid, it is named for its diverse bloom time, flower shapes and colors. When viewing other member’s plants in photos and in person, I noticed that the plant’s foliage varied as well.

Maxillaria variabilis is native to Mexico through Central America into Northern parts of South America. In nature it grows as a small sized terrestrial, lithophytic or epiphytic, solitary leafed species. It grows in open or dense, humid forests, so in culture it likes high humidity and bright, indirect or dappled light. It seems to tolerate a wide range of temperatures also. Anywhere from hot to cool should make this species happy.

Maxillaria variabilis can bloom throughout the year with variable colored, long lasting flowers. The colors of the flowers can be cream, yellow, dark orange, greenish-yellow, dark red or brown. It can also be a combination of those colors. Dark red spots or a red lip can also be present. The flowers have a scent which is usually described as floral and musky. I call it “woodsy”. Watering should be provided year round with light feeding to provide consistent moisture, although moderate drought can be tolerated. This species can be easily divided for propagation.

I got my plant from Gold Country Orchids about 4 years ago. In my conditions it blooms every year for the show in April and only blooms once a year. It puts out flowers for about 6 weeks with the peak bloom in mid-April. My plant is compact with closely grown leaves and pseudobulbs which tend to hide the blooms. That seems to be a habit of the Maxillaria genus.

Mine is in an orchid clay pot containing a mixture of fine bark, LECA pebbles and perlite. It grows in moderate light near but not next to a south window with a sheer curtain. It may also get a little light from a LED source that is diagonally located above it. I water every week in the summer and autumn and every 10 days in winter and early spring. Fertilizing is sporadic with a balanced, dilute solution.

I really enjoy this orchid. It is reliable and easy to grow as it tolerates a variety of conditions. The more I read about it, the more I realized that it would be a very good beginner orchid. Give it a try and see what your conditions produce!