These gorgeous hybrid orchids have a stunning pink-orange colour and mid-green leaves, standing out and providing a beautiful, unusual colour to your indoor landscape. These beautiful flowers are a traditional orchid shape, with a fan of narrow leaves above a wider leaf underneath, they have a sweet, citrusy scent and last for several weeks. Flowers can bloom any time of year, and can bloom multiple times a year, they will just need a bit of rest and some plant food in between. Their long leaves grow out of 'pseudobulbs', a water-storing organ in the orchid which sits just on top of the soil. The deep coral colour surrounds the centre, where a splash of yellow would entice pollinators in its natural habitat. Perfect as a gift for the flower-mad people in your life - or as a gift to yourself - to bring a splash of colour in.
Scientific Name
x Oncidopsis ‘Nelly Isler’ (Hybrid between Oncidium and Miltoniopsis)
Synonyms: x Burrageara
This orchid is a hybrid between orchids from the Oncidium and Miltoniopsis genera.
Common Name(s)
Cambria Orchid, Nelly Isler Orchid
Origin
This Orchid was bred in cultivation, so doesn't have a native environment. Both its parent genera are native to the Americas, with Oncidium found in tropical central America, including the Caribbean, and Miltoniopsis found in cooler rainforests and cloud forests in Central and South America.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. If grown under artificial lights, provide 12–14 hours of light daily to support growth and flowering. Make sure the soil is also in the light, to prevent mould forming, and ensure it gets a little morning sunlight each day throughout its autumn and winter dormancy period.
Water
Water thoroughly when top third of the soil has dried out. Avoid letting the roots sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. In winter, reduce watering frequency but do not allow the plant to completely dry out.
Humidity
Thrives in moderate to high humidity levels (50–70%). Use a humidity tray or place near a humidifier if the air is dry. Regular misting can help, but be careful to avoid the flowers or it can cause spotting on them. Browning leaf-tips are a sign that humidity around the plant is too low.
Soil
Plant in a well-draining orchid or anthurium mix; one combining bark, perlite, and coir is ideal. Repot every 2-3 years or when the potting medium begins to break down. Repotting is best done after flowering.
Food
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertiliser every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You could also supplement with a foliar orchid feed in this period. Reduce feeding to once a month in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 15-27°C. A slight temperature drop (about 5°C) at night can encourage flowering. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C or sudden draughts.
Pet-safe
Yes, this orchid is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Monitor the pseudobulbs for signs of dehydration. If they become wrinkled, increase watering slightly. After flowering, cut back spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.
Extras
This hybrid has received the prestigious AGM (Award of Garden Merit) from the RHS.