Lophiaris straminea

Also known as: The Straw Yellow Oncidium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Veracruz - Mexico

General Information

The Straw Yellow Oncidium is a small warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico.

Plant Description

Grows to 20cm. Each new growth has a single thick erect, elliptic, oblong shaped leaf that grows to 2.5-20cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.5-1.3cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Spring

Blooming Season

• Spring

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 23mm to 163mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in January. Temperature ranges from 13C to 29C, highest in May (19C to 29C) and lowest in January (13C to 22C).

Watering

These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.

Fertiliser

Be sure to flush out excess fertiliser by running water through the media regularly year round.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,