butterfly orchid

Also known as: butterfly plant

A medium-sized, warm-growing epiphytic orchid. New growth emerges from the base of swollen stems (pseudobulbs). Each pseudobulb is round, approximately 3-5cm large, carrying single, 15 - 20cm long leaf. Each rigid leaf is dark green mottled with purple or brown-red. New flowering stems emerge from the base of young, mature pseudobulb and carry numerous, flowers developing in succession. Each upright stem can measure up to 120cm. Flowers are unusually shaped, 13-15cm large and yellow with a reddish-brown pattern.

Scientific classification

Species: butterfly orchid (Oncidium papilio)
Genus: Oncidium
Family: Orchidaceae

Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse · Houseplants
Plant type: 0.5-1 metres
Height: 0.1-0.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Columnar upright · Clump forming
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

butterfly orchid pictures

Distribution of butterfly orchid

Distribution map

Trinidad, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of butterfly orchid

Information to be completed

butterfly orchid care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings
Watering: Partial shade
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings

Fertilizing

Balanced perennial feed every four weeks from spring through summer

Pruning

No pruning required. Do not remove flowering stems, as they will re-flower if left undisturbed.

Propagation

Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may be divided when the plant overgrows its container. Each division should have at least 3 older pseudobulbs with a sufficient amount of stored energy and water, to support new growth and reduce stress after repotting.

Growing

Grow in an open bark-based orchid compost with addition of perlite, sphagnum moss or coir. Provide enough bright filtered light, but keep away from direct sunlight or a heating source. Ideal temperatures are around minimum 14°C at night and up to maximum 30 °C during day. Water regularly, when the pot feels light when lifted. Ensure that all water drains away, preventing the plant sitting wet. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the growing season. Reduce watering and feeding in winter months. For more notes on cultivation, see oncidium orchid (warm) cultivation

More growing and care information →

Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Generally disease-free. Poor air movement may cause bacterial or fungal rots. Good hygiene practice and sterilising cutting tools prevent the spread of virus diseases.