Dimeranda emarginata flowers won’t open

[Nitsuj]

Hi,
I acquired a small Dimeranda emarginata about a year ago. It is growing in warm and humid terrarium. It had two small canes but has since grown a new larger cane. All three canes have produced flower spikes; however, none of the five flowers have opened. The flower buds turn pink and look like they’re going to open but never do. They eventually turn brown and wither. But all 5 pedicels have swollen and appear to be turning into fruits. Why won’t the flowers open? And how are they getting pollinated if they don’t open? Any info would be great! I have read that this species associated with ants in the wild but I don’t plan to introduce ants to the terrarium haha. Thanks

[Roberta]

It sounds like it is self-pollinating within the flowers. Whether this is characteristic of the species in general, or just this plant I don't know - someone with knowledge of the species might have some insight.

I know that specific individual plants of other species sometimes have that bad habit, likely genetic - Epi. nocturnum is one... I have one plant that selfs easily (so has really short-lived flowers if they open at all) and another that behaves more normally and flowers last for a month or 6 weeks.

[Nitsuj]

Thank you for your response! I didn’t realize they could self pollinate without the blooms opening. That’s great to know! Might have to get a different one just so I can see the blooms! It’s funny that you mention nocturnum- I travel to Costa Rica almost yearly and often see it growing with Dimeranda. Seeing it growing in the wild was my inspiration for purchasing one. And nocturnum is on my list too! Thanks again!