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Description
Oncidium Graminifolium, commonly known as the Grass-Leaved Oncidium, is a species of orchid native to South America. It belongs to the Oncidium genus and is a popular ornamental plant due to its stunning flowers that bloom in the fall and winter months. The flowers are yellow with reddish-brown marks and petals that resemble grass blades. Oncidium Graminifolium grows in clumps and produces long stems with multiple leaves and flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Oncidium |
Appearance
Oncidium Graminifolium has long stems that can reach up to 60 centimeters in height. The stems produce multiple leaves that are elongated and narrow, resembling blades of grass. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stem and are yellow with reddish-brown markings. The petals are elongated and narrow, resembling blades of grass as well. The lip of the flower is large and ruffled, with a yellow base and reddish-brown markings.
Care Guide
Oncidium Graminifolium requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for ensuring your plant stays healthy:
Water: Water your Oncidium Graminifolium once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
Soil: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Sunlight: Place your Oncidium Graminifolium in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Oncidium Graminifolium is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oncidium Graminifolium is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a miticide to control infestations.
Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Use an insecticidal soap to control infestations.
Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause the roots to rot, leading to leaf yellowing and wilting. Use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Oncidium Graminifolium is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It grows in wet, humid forests and can be found at elevations up to 1500 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oncidium Graminifolium be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Oncidium Graminifolium can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and proper care.Q: How often should I fertilize Oncidium Graminifolium?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Oncidium Graminifolium?
A: Oncidium Graminifolium is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.Q: What is the best soil for Oncidium Graminifolium?
A: Use a well-draining orchid mix that contains bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Oncidium Graminifolium:
- Oncidium sphacelatum
- Oncidium flexuosum
- Oncidium ornithorhynchum
- Oncidium papilio
References
- “Oncidium Graminifolium.” Orchid Species. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.orchidspecies.com/oncgraminifolium.htm.
- “Oncidium Graminifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277772.
- “Oncidium Graminifolium.” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed July 14, 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/oncidium-graminifolium-grass-leaved-oncidium/.
