Odcdm. Catatante 'Sunny Kalapana'

Here comes a splash of warmth! The Odontocidium Catatante 'Sunny Kalapana' is a fantastic hybrid that embodies the joyful spirit of its namesake. This particular clone is renowned for its generous blooming and cheerful disposition.

As with other Catatante varieties, 'Sunny Kalapana' is a cross between Oncostele Wildcat and Oncidium Sphacetante. This lineage brings together the best of both worlds, resulting in a robust and floriferous orchid that's a joy to grow. Its ancestors hail from various parts of Central and South America, typically found in moist, mountainous cloud forests, often as epiphytes or lithophytes, contributing to its adaptable nature.

The flowers of 'Sunny Kalapana' are a delightful fusion of bronze, orange, and yellow, creating a truly sunny effect. The sepals and petals are usually a rich bronze or coppery orange, often with intricate veining or subtle patterns, adding depth to their appearance. The labellum, or lip, is typically a vibrant, clear yellow, acting as a bright beacon against the darker tones of the rest of the flower. Each bloom measures approximately 2 to 3 inches across, and they are borne on impressive, often branching spikes that can reach 2 to 3 feet tall, creating a spectacular display. While not intensely fragrant, some growers report a very light, pleasant, and sometimes slightly sweet scent, especially when in a warm, well-ventilated spot. This orchid is known for its extended bloom season, often gracing us with flowers from spring through fall, and sometimes even into winter!

The foliage of Odcdm. Catatante 'Sunny Kalapana' is characteristic of many Oncidium-alliance hybrids. The pseudobulbs are plump and ovoid, typically 2 to 3 inches tall, arranged along a creeping rhizome. Each pseudobulb supports one or two upright, lanceolate leaves, which are a healthy medium green and can grow to about 10 to 15 inches in length. The overall plant, including the graceful flower spikes, can stand 2 to 3 feet tall, making it a wonderful statement plant.

Care Instructions

• Light: Provide medium bright light. Think of a bright, filtered location, such as an east-facing window, or a well-lit spot in a greenhouse. Too much direct sun can lead to sunburn on the leaves, while too little light will inhibit flowering.
• Water: Keep the potting medium consistently moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the mix feels dry to the touch. Ensure excellent drainage. Reduce watering slightly during less active growth periods, such as deep winter.
• Temperature: 'Sunny Kalapana' is adaptable and thrives in cool to warm temperatures. Ideal daytime temperatures range from 65 to 85°F, with a night drop to 50 to 65°F. These orchids appreciate a temperature differential between day and night.
• Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%. Good air circulation is crucial, especially in higher humidity, to prevent fungal or bacterial issues.
• Potting Medium: A well-draining, fast-drying mix is essential. A common choice is a mix of medium-grade fir bark, perlite, and perhaps some charcoal. Repot every 1 to 2 years, or when the potting medium begins to decompose, typically after blooming or when new growth is starting.

We are offering our current stock, of mature spiking plants grown in 4" pots. These definitely want to be up-potted once blooming season is over! Available in limited supply.