Tolumnia orchids

Tolumnia is a Caribbean genus of around thirty species, formerly classified as "equitant Oncidiums" within Oncidium but separated on the basis of their distinct growth habit. Plants form small fans of fleshy laterally-compressed leaves (the "equitant" habit) with no pseudobulbs, and produce slender flower spikes with multiple small pansy-faced flowers. Blooms come in a range of patterns and colours, often with extensive spotting or banding.

The genus's compact size and willingness to bloom make Tolumnias favourites of miniature-orchid collectors and growers with limited space. They are not especially difficult once their particular watering requirements (frequent but light, with rapid drying between) are matched.

General care for the genus (species, hybrids and cultivars vary, so check with the grower for a specific plant): warm temperatures (nights 16 to 20 °C, day maximum 30 °C), very bright light (3,000 to 4,000 footcandles), moderate humidity (50 to 70 percent), frequent brief waterings with rapid drying between. Grown mounted on cork, twigs, or small slabs, or in tiny pots with a very open medium. Standard bark pots hold too much moisture for Tolumnias.

Species include Tolumnia pulchella, Tolumnia variegata, Tolumnia triquetra, and Tolumnia urophylla. Numerous hybrids with names like Golden Sunset and Tsiku Marguerite are in circulation. Listings below come from the nurseries we index, most of them re-checked nightly; prices are shown in USD.