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Odontoglossum Orchid Wikimedia Commons
Orchidaceae

Odontoglossum Orchid

Odontoglossum crispum

Cool mountain elegance and refinement.

Family
Orchidaceae
Genus
Odontoglossum
Native to
Colombia
Bloom season
Winter, Spring
Type
epiphytic orchid
Height
12-24 in
Sunlight
bright indirect light
Soil
orchid bark mix, well-aerated
Water
moderate; keep evenly moist
Hardiness
10-11
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • The genus name means 'tooth tongue' from the tooth-like projections on the lip of the flower.
  • During the Victorian orchid craze, collectors stripped entire Colombian mountainsides of these orchids.
  • It grows at high altitudes of 7,000-10,000 feet and requires cool temperatures to thrive.
  • A single flower spike can carry 20 or more large, ruffled blooms lasting six to eight weeks.
  • Many modern Odontoglossum hybrids are bred with Oncidium and Miltonia to increase color variety and hardiness.

Color meanings

0

refined beauty

1

luxury

2

thoughtfulness

Uses

  • orchid collections
  • cut flowers
  • cool greenhouse cultivation
  • hybridization