Oncidium hians

Also known as: The Gaping Oncidium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Minas Gerais - Brazil Para - Brazil Peru

General Information

The Gaping Oncidium is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil and Peru. The name refers to the large teeth of the callus.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 6-12cm. Each new growth has a single leathery oblong shaped leaf that grows to 0.8-10cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1-2cm

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 10mm to 318mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 68% to 77%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 9C to 26C, highest in September (16C to 26C) and lowest in January (9C 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,