About
The plant typically flowers on 30-40cm long, upright stems. A medium-sized, epiphytic orchid with 20-30cm long and 3-4cm wide, evergreen leaves. New growth appears from the swollen stem base - pseudobulb, a storage organ for water and nutrients. Oval-shaped, slightly flattened pseudobulbs are partially covered in one or two pairs of green, leafed sheaths. New flowering stems arise from the axils of young, mature pseudobulbs and the leafed sheaths. Lightly-scented, spider-like flowers range from pale pink to deep red, with lower part of the lip being usually white.
About the genus
A nothogenus of hybrid orchids which are a cross between Brassia, Miltonia and Oncidium orchids. They have strap-shaped green foliage and purple, pink, white or yellow blotched flowers on long stems
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in an open bark-based orchid compost with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Provide enough bright filtered light, but keep away from direct sunlight or a heating source. Ideal temperatures are around 12°C minimum at night and up to maximum 25 °C during day. Water regularly, when the pot feels light when lifted. Ensure that all water drains away, preventing the plant sitting wet. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months. Allow period of lower temperatures to encourage flowering. For more notes see oncidium orchid (cool) cultivation
PruningNo pruning required. Remove the flowering stem once finished flowering.
PropagationMature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids and scale insects.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free.