Oncidium bifolium

Also known as: The Two in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Brazil Entre Rios - Argentina Paraguay Uruguay

General Information

The Two is an intermediate to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

Plant Description

Grows to 7.5-19cm. Each new growth has numerous thick leaves that grow to 6-15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 3-7cm. The plant forms clusters over time

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 89mm to 168mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in June. Humidity ranges from 73% to 81%, highest in November and lowest in June. Temperature ranges from 7C to 27C, highest in June (16C to 27C) and lowest in January (7C to 17C).

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

Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.

Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.

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,

Repotting is best done annually.