Mclna. Yellow Star 'Okika'

This orchid is often called the "Spider Orchid," and a quick glance at its spidery, long sepals and petals will tell you why. The name is a dead giveaway, and it’s a trait inherited from its Brassia ancestry, which are famous for their arachnid-like blooms.

Mclra. Yellow Star 'Okika' is a complex intergeneric hybrid, a testament to the artful crossing of several orchid genera. Its lineage is a veritable who's who of the Oncidium alliance. The parentage is a cross between Oncidium Cornelia (a 1914 hybrid) and Brassidium Gilded Urchin.

Let's unpack that a bit. Brassidium Gilded Urchin is a primary hybrid, meaning a cross between two species: Brassia arcuigera and Oncidium wentworthianum. Brassia arcuigera hails from the wet forests of Central America, from Honduras down to Panama, and across northern South America, thriving at elevations from sea level up to around 4,000 ft. It enjoys intermediate to warm temperatures. Oncidium wentworthianum is found in Mexico and Guatemala, growing in humid forests at elevations up to 4,900 ft., preferring cool to intermediate temperatures.

The other parent, Oncidium Cornelia, is itself a hybrid of Oncidium Bellatulum and Oncidium Fascinator. Digging deeper, Oncidium Bellatulum is a cross of Oncidium alexandrae and Oncidium tripudians, both cool-growing species from the high-altitude cloud forests of the Andes in Colombia and Ecuador, typically found between 6,000 and 10,000 ft. Oncidium Fascinator’s parentage includes Oncidium alexandrae again, along with other species from similar cool, high-elevation Andean habitats. This rich genetic tapestry from mountainous regions contributes to the robust nature of 'Okika'.

The result of this esteemed lineage is a truly impressive flower. Mclra. Yellow Star 'Okika' produces striking, star-shaped yellow blooms that can reach up to 5 inches across. The sepals and petals are a bright, clear yellow, often with some subtle brown barring near the center, a nod to its Brassia heritage. The lip is broad and a vibrant yellow, creating a beautiful focal point. The flowers are arranged on an arching inflorescence that can reach a height of 20 to 32 inches, carrying up to a dozen or more of these spectacular, slightly fragrant blossoms.

The plant itself is a fairly vigorous grower, a trait often seen in such complex hybrids. It has pseudobulbs that are ovoid and somewhat compressed, typical of the Oncidium alliance. From the apex of these pseudobulbs, one or two strap-like leaves emerge. The foliage is a handsome green, with the leaves being linear-lanceolate in shape, reaching lengths of 12 to 18 inches. The overall plant has a commanding presence, even when not in bloom, with a mature specimen being a substantial and attractive plant. While there are no recorded American Orchid Society awards for the 'Okika' cultivar specifically, the visual impact of a well-grown plant is its own reward.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light, around 2000-3000 foot-candles. An east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.

Water: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is approaching dryness but still slightly damp. These orchids do not like to dry out completely, nor do they appreciate soggy roots. The frequency will vary with your growing conditions, but typically once or twice a week during active growth. Reduce watering slightly during the cooler months.

Temperature: This hybrid is quite adaptable due to its diverse parentage but generally prefers intermediate to warm temperatures. Aim for daytime temperatures between 70-80°F and a nighttime drop to 60-65°F. It can tolerate temperatures into the high 80s if humidity and air circulation are good.

Humidity: Prefers humidity levels of 50-70%. If your growing area is dry, consider using a humidity tray or a small humidifier. Good air movement is essential to prevent fungal issues, especially in high humidity.

Potting Medium: A well-draining, airy potting mix is crucial. A medium-grade fir bark mix with perlite and charcoal is a good choice. Repot every 1-2 years, or when the potting medium begins to break down. Repotting is best done when new growth and roots are just beginning to emerge.