Oncidium schillerianum

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

Native to: Cajamarca - Peru

General Information

Schiller's Oncidium is a sympodial cold to cool growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru. It is named after the German Orchid Enthusiast in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Each new growth has numerous oblong shaped leaves that grow to 3.3-15cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5cm. The plant tends to climb or sprawl with each new growth

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 0mm to 147mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 55% to 69%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 4C to 22C, highest in February (8C to 22C) and lowest in January (4C to 21C).

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

Due to the growth nature of these plants they are best mounted onto cork, tree fern slabs, or even trees if the climate suits. Water regularly especially in hot weather.

This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs.