Oncidium formosissimum

Native to: Departamento del Huila - Colombia

General Information

Oncidium formosissimum is a sympodial cold to cool growing epiphytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Colombia.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 11-14cm. Each new growth has a single leaf that grows to 2-9cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-5cm

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 33mm to 277mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in August. Humidity ranges from 62% to 79%, highest in December and lowest in August. Temperature ranges from 11C to 25C, highest in August (11C to 25C) and lowest in May (11C to 23C).

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 can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well.

The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.