Oncidium tipuloides

Also known as: The Gnat or Oncidium ototmeton in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Pasco - Peru

General Information

The Gnat is a cool to warm growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru. The name refers to the numerous flowers in the branched inflorescence resembling a swarm of gnats.

Plant Description

Each new growth has a single leaf that grows to 30-39cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 5-15cm

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 114mm to 632mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in December. Humidity ranges from 76% to 81%, highest in July and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 13C to 27C, highest in February (14C to 27C) and lowest in January (13C 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,