Tolumnia Orchids
If you have a warm, sunny windowsill, and sometimes forget to water, Tolumnias may be perfect for you. These mini orchids have eye-catching colors and patterns. I bought this Tolumnia hybrid at last year’s Pacific Orchid Expo, and this year, it put on a great show with lots of brilliant blooms.
Tolumnias are native to the Caribbean, and are sometimes called Equitant Oncidiums or Dancing Lady Orchids. Their small leaves require morning sun and warm temps. With thin roots, which need to dry out between waterings, they’re often grown on mounts. This allows them to dry quicker than potted plants. Provide a winter dormancy with reduced watering, but always maintain high humidity and good air movement.
Tolumnias come in vivid colors, like reds, pinks, yellows, and oranges. Although the plants remain small, their flower spikes can reach up to 18 inches (46 cm,) so they do require some extra space when in bloom. Old spikes may blossom again, so don’t cut them off when they’re done. And find a little room for these floral gems on your windowsill.
Explore posts in the same categories: Dormancy, Growing, Mini Orchids, Photos, Warm Growers, Watering
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April 19th, 2016 at 2:31 am
Just lovely.
April 25th, 2016 at 2:24 pm
I really like it when you share pictures.
Great website, stick with it!
May 9th, 2016 at 12:04 pm
Hi I received a orchid plant and I transferred it to a bigger pot. I’m not sure what kind it is but after it bloomed the bottom leaf is turning yellow what can I do or did it kill my beautiful plant. Please help
May 10th, 2016 at 9:57 pm
Hi Teresa. A lower leaf turning yellow isn’t usually a problem. It may simply be an old leaf, or the plant may be adjusting to its new home. If more leaves start to drop, check basic orchid care info, especially regarding humidity, light, and temperatures.