Lelia
oncidium leleui
Also known as: ["Lelia","Dancing Lady Orchid"]
Overview
A species of orchid native to Mexico and Central America, known for its showy, dancing lady-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Oncidium |
| Botanical Name: | Oncidium leleui |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with excellent air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite or charcoal for aeration and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or when dead/damaged parts are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only non-viable parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to higher light levels; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; place in east or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light levels seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Allow the potting medium to dry out partially between waterings; water more frequently during active growth and less during dormancy; ensure water reaches the root zone thoroughly.
Soil
orchid bark mix with perlite and charcoal
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a well-aerated mix; avoid heavy potting soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night during winter dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent night/day cycles; protect from drafts and extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with a balanced orchid fertilizer, reducing to monthly in winter
Flush the pot with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn; adjust frequency based on growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs or backbulbs; mature plants can be split into smaller clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide the plant into clumps with at least 3 pseudobulbs.
- Pot each division in fresh orchid mix.
- Water lightly and place in a humid location.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, sterilized pots, orchid mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy pseudobulbs; keep newly propagated plants out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower spikes at the base after blooming; trim dead leaves or pseudobulbs with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower spikes and dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; cut spent flower spikes at the base; remove dead or yellowing leaves; avoid cutting healthy pseudobulbs.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer after flowering when new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the potting medium breaks down; necessary to refresh nutrients and improve drainage.
Checklist
Use fresh orchid mix; trim dead roots and old pseudobulbs; position plant so pseudobulbs are just below the surface; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow medium to dry partially between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains freely from the bottom of the pot; focus on the root zone, avoiding wetting the leaves; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter when growth slows.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate sphagnum moss for moisture retention; use orchid-specific fertilizers to enhance nutrients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf spotting.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause root damage, and lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; maintain minimum temperatures above 50°F (10°C); use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted orchid fertilizer; fertilize during active growth only; flush soil monthly to prevent salt accumulation.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) diluted to half strength; fertilize every 2–4 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOncidium leleui is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOncidium leleui is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOncidium leleui is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Oncidium leleui be watered?
A: Water every 7-10 days, allowing the medium to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Oncidium leleui require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to other orchids.
Q: How can I encourage blooming in Oncidium leleui?
A: Provide a slight drop in temperature at night to simulate natural conditions and promote flowering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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