Long-horned Oncidium (Oncidium longicornu)

Long-horned Oncidium

Oncidium longicornu

Delicate dancing blooms nod like golden butterflies. Epiphytic orchid; common name: Long-horned Oncidium.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid harsh midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch and pseudobulb damage
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Watering Water thoroughly when the orchid bark medium feels dry to the touch; avoid waterlogging pseudobulbs to prevent rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; maintain temperatures above 12°C to avoid stress to pseudobulbs
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, leathery dark green foliage growing in pairs from pseudobulbs
  • Flower: Small golden-yellow blooms with long, horn-like lateral sepals; clustered on branching spikes
  • Pseudobulbs: Oval, fleshy structures storing water and nutrients
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep growing medium consistently moist but not soggy; mist foliage to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization during winter dormancy to avoid nutrient buildup

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:40 with water for root drenching to prevent mold or pest issues
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to pseudobulb growth
  • Remove yellowing or dead leaves to improve airflow and reduce fungal risk
  • Divide overcrowded pseudobulbs during spring repotting to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity symptoms

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental potted orchid for indoor tabletop or hanging display