Oncidium leleui

Also known as: Leleu's Oncidium in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Guerrero - Mexico Nayarit - Mexico Oaxaca - Mexico Sinaloa - Mexico

General Information

Leleu's Oncidium is a sympodial hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Mexico. It is named after the Mexican Orchid Enthusiast.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 0.9-100cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery leaves that grow to 25-75cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 2.5-60cm

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 0mm to 196mm per day, heaviest in July and lightest in April. Temperature ranges from 13C to 34C, highest in May (23C to 34C) and lowest in January (13C to 29C).

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,