Overview
Odontoglossum caudatum is a plant with a epiphytic habit in the genus Odontoglossum, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Odontoglossum caudatum grows best in full shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include houseplant.
About
Odontoglossum caudatum is an epiphytic, evergreen orchid commonly grown as a houseplant for its shade-adapted habit. It suits north-facing, sheltered positions and prefers full shade with a moist but well-drained, acidic loam. Flowering occurs April to July. Avoid bright sun and protect developing buds from cold drafts while the plant is in growth.
About the genus
Odontoglossum, first named in 1816 by Karl Sigismund Kunth, is a formerly accepted genus of orchids that is now regarded as a synonym of Oncidium. Several hundred species have previously been placed in Odontoglossum. The scientific name of the genus is derived from the Greek words odon (tooth) and glossa (tongue), referring to the two tooth-like calluses on the base of the lip.
Wikipedia contributors, "Odontoglossum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Odontoglossum
In the garden
A member of the genus Odontoglossum in the Orchidaceae, Odontoglossum caudatum grows with an epiphytic habit and retains evergreen foliage year-round. In the UK it is most often cultivated under glass or in a warm, shaded room where conditions can be kept steady and sheltered. Position the plant in full shade on a north-facing windowsill or in a shaded greenhouse bench; exposure should be sheltered to prevent chilly drafts. Use an acidic loam that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged, and aim for a compost that stays evenly damp but drains freely. The species is rated H4 (average) for UK hardiness, so it is best treated as a houseplant or kept in a protected greenhouse rather than placed into exposed outdoor borders. Expect flowers from April to July; keep moisture consistent through bud development and avoid sudden temperature swings to reduce bud drop. Because it prefers shade and shelter, Odontoglossum caudatum works well in conservatories, shaded greenhouse benches or bright rooms away from direct sun, where its spring-to-summer flowering can be observed at close range.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Odontoglossum
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Odontoglossum caudatum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Epiphytic
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Odontoglossum caudatum
- Propagation
- Division, backbulbs
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids, spider mites
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to root rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Odontoglossum caudatum?
Odontoglossum caudatum prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Odontoglossum caudatum need?
Odontoglossum caudatum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Odontoglossum caudatum hardy in the UK?
Odontoglossum caudatum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Odontoglossum caudatum?
Division, backbulbs.