Oncidium (Odontoglossum) cristatum

Odontoglossum cristatum is native to Ecuador and Colombia where it is found in cloud forest from 1500-2600 m altitude and so it is very well suited to growing shaded from direct sunlight or in our cloud forest greenhouse at the nursery on Portland.  I have always known this plant as Odontoglossum cristatum but odontoglossum species have been included in Oncidium on the basis of molecular studies although there is strong scientific support for reinstating Odontoglossum.

Our plants go back to a seedling purchased in 1996 and since then we have grown the species equally well in pots, mounted and in baskets. Our clone is particularly strong growing and produces 80cm long branched flower spikes with very long lasting flowers. Plants have won many prizes over the years including Grand Champion of Europe at the European Orchid Show in Paris in 2017.