Oncidium tripterygium

Native to: Amazonas - Peru Provincia de Loja - Ecuador

General Information

Oncidium tripterygium is a cold growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru and Ecuador.

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 3mm to 53mm per day, heaviest in October and lightest in March. Temperature ranges from 7C to 20C, highest in June (8C to 20C) and lowest in May (7C to 18C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.

Fertiliser

These orchids do not need to be regularly fertilised and roots may be sensitive to salt build-up, dying back and therefore impairing the plants growth or even killing it.

If fertilising, use half to quarter of the recommended amount of fertiliser. If they receive fertiliser as part of a collection, be sure to flush out the pots regularly with fresh water and monitor the roots by checking how much resistance is given by the plant when nudged in its pot or mount. If the plant becomes wobbly or loose, repot in fresh mix or rinse the media/mount thoroughly and do not fertilise for at least 3 months.

This plant is sensitive so apply fertiliser sparingly at one quarter recommended strength or less.