Oncidium ornithorhynchum
This compact species is grown for clouds of pink flowers and a sweet scent. It flowers under bright filtered light and cool to intermediate temperatures. Plants suit windowsills and small benches in North America. The vanilla like fragrance is strongest in bright morning light. Name usage varies in the trade and some plants are treated as Oncidium sotoanum.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Oncidium species (Oncidiinae)
- Height × spread: 8 to 16 in tall including spikes (20 to 40 cm); 8 to 12 in wide (20 to 30 cm)
- Bloom window: autumn to spring; varies by climate
- Color & flower form: pale pink to lilac sprays on branched stems with many small flowers
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: grown as houseplant in most of North America; outdoors year round only in zones 10 to 12
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, 1815, Mexico to Central America
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Pink flowers instead of the typical yellow.
- Strong fragrance compared to many species.
- Compact habit for small spaces.
Strengths
- Free flowering once established.
- Multiple spikes on mature plants.
- Adapts to indoor culture with good light.
Care in one minute
- Site: bright indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun.
- Medium: fine bark with perlite; fast drainage; slightly acidic.
- Water: keep evenly moist in growth; allow a brief drydown between waterings.
- Feed: quarter strength fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks in growth; reduce in winter.
Watch‑outs
- Sources differ on identity and naming.
- Buds can blast if humidity drops.
- Leaves scorch in hot direct sun.
Best uses (tags)
containers, fragrant, houseplant
Provenance note
Name is accepted by Kew. Many growers apply the name to plants also treated as Oncidium sotoanum; usage differs among references.
References
- Kew – POWO, Oncidium ornithorhynchum
- RHS – Oncidium ornithorhynchum plant details
- IOSPE – Note on name usage for O. ornithorhynchum
- American Orchid Society – Oncidium culture sheet
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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