Tolumnia prionochila

Also known as: The Toothed Lip Tolumnia or Oncidium prionochilum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Puerto Rico

General Information

The Toothed Lip Tolumnia is a miniature hot growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Puerto Rico.

Plant Description

Grows to 2.5-26cm. Each new growth has numerous leathery terete shaped leaves that grow to 1.8-13.5cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 1cm

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Summer and Spring

Blooming Season

• Spring
• Summer

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 elevations. Rainfall ranges from 43mm to 175mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in March. Humidity ranges from 72% to 78%, highest in October and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 22C to 31C, highest in July (25C to 31C) and lowest in January (22C to 28C).

Fertiliser

These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.

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,