Oncidium gravesianum

Also known as: Graves Oncidium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Parana - Brazil Pernambuco - Brazil Tocantins - Brazil

General Information

Graves Oncidium is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil. It is named after the English Horticultural Society Member later in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 4.5-20cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 0.75-7.5cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn and Spring

Blooming Season

• Autumn
• 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 20mm to 254mm per day, heaviest in December and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 78% to 91%, highest in January and lowest in May. Temperature ranges from 14C to 30C, highest in June (18C to 30C) and lowest in February (14C 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.

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,

This plant does well mounted.