Oncidium schmidtianum

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

General Information

Schmidt's Oncidium is a large sympodial warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the German Botanist later in the 19th century.

Plant Description

Sympodial. Grows to 20cm. Each new growth has numerous rigid leaves that grow to 2-16cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1.7-4.2cm

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 36mm to 206mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 77% to 86%, highest in June and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 16C to 28C, highest in April (18C to 28C) and lowest in January (16C to 25C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

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,