Cambria ‘Pacific Sunset’ is a beautiful hybrid orchid producing elegant sprays of colourful, exotic-looking flowers above long, slender green leaves. Its intricate blooms and vibrant colouring make it a striking alternative to the more familiar Phalaenopsis orchid, while its long-lasting flowers provide plenty of impact in the home.
Scientific Name
Cambria ‘Pacific Sunset’
Cambria orchids are complex intergeneric hybrids from the Oncidium alliance rather than a single naturally occurring species.
Common Name(s)
Cambria Orchid, Pacific Sunset Orchid
Origin
A cultivated hybrid descended from orchid species native to Central and South America, where their ancestors grow in a variety of tropical and subtropical environments.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Some gentle morning or evening sunlight is beneficial, but avoid strong midday sun, which can scorch the leaves. A bright east or west-facing windowsill is ideal.
Water
Water when the growing medium has begun to dry but before it becomes completely dry. Water thoroughly and allow all excess water to drain away. Avoid leaving the pot sitting in water. Cambria orchids generally prefer slightly more consistent moisture than Phalaenopsis orchids.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity with good airflow. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air.
Soil
Grow in a specialist orchid mix, usually containing plenty of coarse bark to provide excellent drainage and airflow around the roots. Avoid standard houseplant compost.
Food
Feed every 2–4 weeks during active growth with a specialist orchid fertiliser diluted according to the instructions. Reduce feeding when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 16–24°C. Cambria orchids generally appreciate slightly cooler conditions than many tropical orchids, particularly overnight.
Pet-safe
Orchids in the Oncidium alliance are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Sprouts Top Tips
Once flowering has finished, cut the spent flower stem back towards its base but leave the pseudobulbs and foliage in place. These pseudobulbs store water and energy for future growth and flowering. Providing slightly cooler nighttime temperatures can also help encourage another flowering cycle.
Extras
Cambria orchids grow from pseudobulbs, with each new growth capable of producing its own flower spike once mature. Individual pseudobulbs normally flower only once, but the plant will continue producing new growth that can bloom in future seasons.
Did You Know?
Despite appearing on plant labels everywhere, Cambria isn’t actually a botanical genus. The name is widely used in the houseplant trade for a diverse group of colourful, complex orchid hybrids involving members of the Oncidium alliance.
