About
Medium-sized, sympodially growing epiphytic orchid, producing a clump of large, ovoid, compressed pseudobulbs, covered by two or three distichous leafy sheaths. Linear, fleshy, evergreen leaves up to 40cm long are borne in pair at the tip of each pseudobulb. Flowering stems can reach up to 75cm and emerge at the base of mature pseudobulbs, between the pseudobulb base and leafy sheaths. Branched racemes carry large number of small, approx 3 cm wide flowers. Colour may vary from ruby-red, orange to yellow with darker markings. Large, older plants with two or more mature pseudobulbs can often carry two or more inflorescences.
About the genus
A hybrid genus of orchids used for greges (plural of grex) which contain at least one ancestor species from the genera Oncidium and Rhynchostele
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 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 minimum 13°C 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. For more notes on cultivation, see Oncidium orchids (warm section).
PruningNo pruning required. Remove the flowering stem once finished flowering.
PropagationPropagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a suffient 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