Oncidium schwambachii
Native to: Brazil
General Information
Oncidium schwambachii is a cool to warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Brazil.
Plant Description
Grows to 8-12cm. Each new growth has a single leaf that grows to 2.3-12cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1cm
Flowers
Numerous fragrant blossoms appear
Fragrance
The orchid is fragrant.
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Bark
- Treefern
- Spaghnum Moss
- IsFragrant
Climate
Grows at low elevations. Rainfall ranges from 53mm to 160mm per day, heaviest in June and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 82% to 86%, highest in March and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 15C to 27C, highest in August (19C to 27C) and lowest in January (15C 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.
Mist during hot weatherFertiliser
Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.
Use balanced fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer.Potting
Use water retentive media such as moss to prevent roots from drying out quickly This plant does well mounted to Cork slabs. Repotting is best done annually.
