Oncidium altissimum
Wydler's dancing-lady orchid · Golden shower · Dancing-lady Orchid · Kandyan dancing-lady orchid · West-Indian Lady-orchid
Description
Source: leafsnapOncidium altissimum is a species of orchid native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Belonging to the Oncidium genus, it is commonly referred to as the "tall Oncidium" due to its noticeably long stems, which can reach heights of up to 1.5 meters. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow flowers adorned with brown markings on their petals and sepals. Each flower features a distinctive lip, or labellum, with a fringed edge and a bright yellow center. Oncidium altissimum thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity, conditions similar to its natural tropical rainforest habitat. It requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. While it should be watered regularly, care must be taken to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. This orchid species is popular among collectors due to its unique appearance and relative ease of cultivation compared to other types of orchids. It also serves as an excellent ornamental plant for both indoor and outdoor gardens, thanks to its striking flowers that can bloom year-round with proper care. Overall, Oncidium altissimum is an attractive orchid species characterized by its tall stems and vibrant yellow flowers. It is an excellent addition for any garden enthusiast or collector seeking something unique yet easy to care for in their collection.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
Water regularly or every other day during the growing season. However, keep in mind that drainage is a top necessity. The potting medium must be completely drainable. Plants can also be planted in baskets or on slabs. Oncidiums are prone to decay due to their huge, fleshy pseudobulbs and masses of roots. If a pseudobulb begins to decay, remove it with sterile snippers and lessen the amount of water applied.
☀️ Light Partial sun
Wydler's dancing-lady orchid is native to habitats like forest understories and rocky sites, where it receives natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, showing its versatile, hardy nature.
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
Wydler's dancing-lady orchid prosperuje w ciepłych warunkach. Najlepiej rośnie w umiarkowanie wysokich temperaturach, unikając nadmiernego gorąca i wilgoci. Światło słoneczne ogrzewa roślinę i sprzyja kwitnieniu. Jednak długotrwałe wystawienie na bezpośrednie słońce latem może wywołać poparzenia słoneczne, dlatego w tym okresie należy kontrolować ilość światła. Roślina zazwyczaj źle znosi niskie temperatury, więc w zimie potrzebuje odpowiedniej ochrony i wyższych temperatur, by zapobiec przemarznięciu.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 5-6
🌱 Fertilizer
Appropriate fertilization is essential for Wydler's dancing-lady orchid's health and appearance. Apply fertilizer in summer, repeating the application monthly throughout the season. The nutrients supply energy for growth and support the plant's tissues. Fertilizing improves Wydler's dancing-lady orchid's flower display, helping it achieve the best blooms.
🪴 Pot & Repot
When repotting Wydler's dancing-lady orchid, select a pot only slightly larger with good drainage, ideally a clear orchid pot. Use an orchid-specific, well-draining mix that includes bark or moss. Carefully clean the roots and cut away any that are dead or rotting. Repot after flowering, usually in spring or fall, water thoroughly, and place in bright, indirect light. Avoid disturbing the roots once repotted.
✂️ Pruning
When the last bloom on these types is about to die, count down three nodes—the bumps on the spike where the individual flowers emerge—and cut the end of the flower spike completely off with sterilized scissors.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
The Oncidium orchid is not toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. This child- and pet-friendly orchid is safe to have as a houseplant, whether indoors or outdoors.
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Oncidium
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Olive Drab
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Brown
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Fall