Encyclia oncidioides

Common Name: Oncidium-like Encyclia

Habitat: Brazil, Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela. Encyclia oncidioides frequently is found growing as a terrestrial in white sand in northern Brazil. It is thought that its preferred habitats were former lake beds.

Plant Size: Large. The upright pseudobulbs of Encyclia oncidioides are upright and grow to 4 inches (9-10 cm). Each growth produces up to 4 long, broad leaves (37 cm x 3 cm). There is more than the usual amount of space between pseudobulbs.

Flower Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Flower Description: The inflorescence grows to 32 inches (90 cm) long and is branched. Individual branches are short and have many flowers. Petals and sepals are spoon-shaped. The creamy white or yellow lip is small and spade shaped and has magenta or red markings. Encyclia oncidioides has a strong, floral scent that is reminiscent of violets or roses.

Bloom Season: May to August (June and July are peak bloom months).

Growing Temperature: Intermediate

Additional Information: Encyclia oncidioides is the largest species in the genus and the plants are vigorous growers. Grow in a coarse, open media in a wide, shallow pot (i.e. bulb pan) or mount on cork. Use a large mount because the pseudobulbs like to ramble and are not tightly clustered like many other members of the genus. Provide Cattleya growing conditions with adequate air circulation. Water and fertilize during periods of active growth. Attractive and easy to grow. There are many species that were once lumped together under this name so the plant you buy may vary some from the above description.

Synonyms: Epidendrum ensiforme, Epidendrum oncidioides, Epidendrum longiolium, Epidendrum oncidioides sensu, Encyclia longifolia, Encyclia ensiformis, Encyclia vellozoana


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