Oncidium Hastatum

Description

Oncidium Hastatum, also known as the Dancing Lady orchid, is a species of orchid that is native to Central and South America. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful yellow flowers that have a distinctive fringed lip. The plant is epiphytic, meaning it grows on other plants, and can reach heights of up to 3 feet.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Oncidium Hastatum has long, thin leaves that can grow up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. The plant produces multiple stems that can each bear up to 15 flowers. The flowers are yellow with a dark yellow or brown fringed lip. They are about 1 inch in diameter and have a sweet fragrance.

Care Guide

Water: Oncidium Hastatum should be watered once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season. The plant should be watered thoroughly, but excess water should be drained to prevent root rot.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Oncidium Hastatum should be planted in a well-draining orchid mix that allows for air circulation around the roots.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.Hardiness Zones: Oncidium Hastatum is hardy in zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Oncidium Hastatum is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as black rot and crown rot. To prevent pests and diseases, the plant should be kept in a clean environment and not overwatered.

Habitat

Oncidium Hastatum is native to Central and South America and can be found growing in lowland forests and along streams. It grows as an epiphyte on trees and rocks, using its roots to anchor itself to the surface.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Oncidium Hastatum?
A: The plant should be watered once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season.Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Oncidium Hastatum?
A: A balanced fertilizer should be used once a month during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal sunlight exposure for Oncidium Hastatum?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with my Oncidium Hastatum?
A: The plant can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, black rot, and crown rot.

Related Plants

– Oncidium Sharry Baby- Oncidium Twinkle- Oncidium Gower Ramsey

References

– American Orchid Society. (n.d.). Oncidium hastatum. https://www.aos.org/orchids/orchids-a-to-z/letter-o/oncidium-hastatum.aspx- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Oncidium hastatum. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c160- Orchid Care Tips. (n.d.). Oncidium orchid care. https://www.orchidcaretips.com/oncidium-orchid-care.html