About
A medium-sized, epiphytic orchid with strap-shaped, 20-30cm long, evergreen leaves. New growth appears from the swollen stem base- pseudobulb, a storage organ for water and nutrients. They are oval-shaped, slightly flattened around the top and partially covered by two pairs of green, leafed sheaths. New flowering stems arise from the axils of young, mature pseudobulbs and the sheaths. Up to 40cm long, upright flowering stems carry 9 or more flowers. Each flower is approximately 3-4cm large with dark red spots covering petals and sepals. Both, petals and sepals are slightly curved upright with yelow or green tips. Lip is dark red, with white. lower half.
About the genus
A genus of hybrid, deciduous flowering trees with long, tapered dark green foliage and large, frilly pink or white flowers with striped throats, appearing in the summer and autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
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 on cultivation, 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 growths 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.