Oncidium paleatum

Native to: Departamento de Matagalpa - Nicaragua Honduras

General Information

Oncidium paleatum is a sympodial cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Nicaragua and Honduras.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 52cm. Each new growth has a single leathery leaf that grows to 2.5-40cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 4-12cm

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

hot-forest-orchids Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 175mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 63% to 81%, highest in October and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 13C to 28C, highest in April (17C to 28C) and lowest in January (13C to 23C).

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,