Oncidium echinops

Also known as: The Plain Hedgehog Oncidium or Heteranthocidium hirtzii Oncidium hirtzii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Ecuador

General Information

The Plain Hedgehog Oncidium is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Ecuador. The name refers to the spiny, pilose callus.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has a single lance shaped leaf that grows to 1.6-10cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.5-6cm

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 high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 203mm to 381mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 87% to 89%, highest in January and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 12C to 23C, highest in March (13C to 23C) and lowest in January (12C to 21C).

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.

Fertiliser

Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.

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,