Orchid, Oncidium (Oncidium spp.)

Orchid, Oncidium Plant Features

Oncidium orchids are some of the finest flowering houseplants around. They offer exceptionally beautiful flowers in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. But best of all, they're easy to grow! You don't a special spot or fancy equipment to grow these orchids in your home. 

While oncidium orchids are a little less popular than moth orchids, they offer much more variety. You can find oncidium orchids with pure white flowers to those whose flowers are so dark red they're nearly black. Many have large numbers of small flowers in dense sprays; others have fewer, but much larger flowers. And many of our favorite oncidium orchids have fragrant flowers (one of the best ones smells of chocolate!).

Oncidium orchids look stunning on their own or mixed together, as well as paired with other types of orchids. But, because they're so easy and adaptable, you can also grow oncidium orchids right alongside other houseplants. 

Oncidium Questions?
Email us with any questions you might have about growing these plants.
Plus, download our free Orchids Are Easy Idea Book for more tips from our growers.

Orchid, Oncidium Growing Instructions

Grow oncidium orchids in a medium or bright spot. In Northern areas, they can handle some direct sun on their leaves, but in Southern climates where the summer sun is more intense, it's helpful to diffuse direct sun with a sheer curtain. If they get too much direct light, oncidium orchids will often show reddish or purplish tones to their leaves.

Allow oncidium orchids to dry out a bit between waterings, so don't add more water if the bark they're growing in already feels moist to the touch. Most oncidium orchids can store water in their stems to help get them through extended dry spells. Typically, they appreciate a little more moisture in spring and summer than they do in fall or winter (so you don't have to worry about it if you forget to water them during the busy holiday time).
Get more orchid watering tips. 

As with most tropical plants, these orchids like a relatively humid spot. The average home's humidity is typically just fine, but if your home's air is especially dry, it's helpful to augment the amount of moisture in the air a bit. 

Repot oncidium orchids every couple of years when the bark breaks down and starts to look like soil. 

These beauties are not recommended for human or animal consumption.

  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Indoors: High light

    Indoors: Medium light

  • Colors

    Orange

    Pink

    Purple

    Red

    Variegated

    White

    Yellow

  • Special Features

    Purifies the air

Complement your Orchid, Oncidium

Orchid, Dendrobium
Dendrobium orchids and oncidium orchids grow perfectly together -- and look amazing, too.

Orchid, Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis, the classic orchid, adds even more grace and beauty to stunning oncidium orchid.

Bromeliad
Easy-to-grow bromeliads add an exotic, orchid-like touch to oncidium orchids.