Oncidium bidentatum

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

Oncidium bidentatum is a warm to hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador.

Plant Description

Grows to 20-25cm. Each new growth has numerous arching oblong shaped leaves that grow to 15-18cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-7cm

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 3mm to 180mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 70% to 81%, highest in August and lowest in May. Temperature ranges from 12C to 24C, highest in June (15C to 24C) and lowest in February (12C to 22C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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,