Contents
Description
Oncidium Maculatum, also known as the Spotted Oncidium, is a species of orchid that originated in Central and South America. This epiphytic orchid is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya|| ————- |:————-:|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum | Tracheophyta|| Class | Liliopsida|| Order | Asparagales|| Family | Orchidaceae|| Genus | Oncidium|
Appearance
Oncidium Maculatum has long, thin leaves that grow up to 2 feet in length. Its flowers grow on a tall spike that can reach up to 3 feet in height. The flowers are yellow with reddish-brown spots and have a sweet fragrance. Each flower can last up to 6 weeks.
Care Guide
Water
Oncidium Maculatum prefers to be watered once a week. It’s important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering. This orchid also benefits from occasional misting to increase humidity.
Fertilization
Fertilize Oncidium Maculatum with a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce fertilization to once every two months.
Soil
Oncidium Maculatum grows best in a well-draining orchid mix. Use a mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Sunlight
This orchid prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Oncidium Maculatum thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oncidium Maculatum is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This orchid is also prone to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Oncidium Maculatum is found in Central and South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees in tropical forests.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Oncidium Maculatum?
A: Water this orchid once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Oncidium Maculatum?
A: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce fertilization to once every two months.
Q: What pests are common on Oncidium Maculatum?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests on this orchid.
Q: Where is Oncidium Maculatum found in the wild?
A: This orchid is found in Central and South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees in tropical forests.
Related Plants
– Oncidium Sharry Baby- Oncidium Gower Ramsey- Oncidium Twinkle- Oncidium Heaven Scent
References
– American Orchid Society. (n.d.). Oncidium. https://www.aos.org/orchids/orchids-a-to-z/letter-o/oncidium.aspx- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Oncidium maculatum. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279501&isprofile=0&pt=2- Orchid Society of Great Britain. (n.d.). Oncidium maculatum. https://www.osgb.org.uk/oncidium-maculatum/
