Onc. Gower Ramsey

Bright yellow sprays of flowers that look like a cloud of butterflies or a bunch of dancing ladies, it's no wonder Oncidium Gower Ramsey is a charmer. This hybrid bursts forth with an abundance of vibrant, canary-yellow flowers, each with a touch of reddish-brown barring at the center, creating a delightful freckled appearance. The blooms, typically about 1.5 in. across, are held on tall, branching spikes that can reach an impressive 30-38 in., creating a truly spectacular display. It's a prolific bloomer, often gracing us with its cheerful presence in the spring and fall.

The plant itself has a robust and vigorous growth habit. It forms clusters of ovoid pseudobulbs, which are clever water-storage organs, each topped with one or two strap-like, leathery leaves. These bright green leaves can grow up to 2 ft. long, providing a lush backdrop for the brilliant floral show.

The Gower Ramsey is a complex hybrid, a testament to the art of orchid breeding. It is a cross between Oncidium Goldiana and Oncidium Guinea Gold. But the story doesn't end there.

Oncidium Goldiana is a cross between Gomesa flexuosa and Oncidium sphacelatum. Gomesa flexuosa hails from the coastal mountains and inland streams of Brazil and Argentina, a region of warm, humid conditions. Oncidium sphacelatum, with its origins stretching from Mexico down to northern South America, is also a warm-growing epiphyte, often found clinging to trees.

The other parent, Oncidium Guinea Gold, has a more intricate lineage, drawing from a number of species primarily from the cooler, high-elevation cloud forests of the Andes in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This parentage includes contributions from:

Oncidium alexandrae: Found in the wet tropics of Colombia, this species is known for its delicate, lace-like flowers and prefers cool, humid conditions.

Oncidium noezlianum: Native to Ecuador, this orchid thrives in humid, shaded environments.

Oncidium spectatissimum: Hailing from the cloud forests of Ecuador and Peru, it is accustomed to cool, moist conditions.

Oncidium nobile: This species is found in Brazil and enjoys a range from lowland forests to higher altitudes.

Oncidium harryanum: Native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, it grows on trees at the edge of rainforests at elevations of 5,900-7,500 ft.

Oncidium luteopurpureum: This Colombian native is found in wet, cold cloud forests at elevations of 6,500-9,800 ft.

Oncidium hallii: Growing in the very wet montane cloud forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, it can be found at altitudes from 3,900 to 10,800 ft.

This rich and varied genetic background is what gives Oncidium Gower Ramsey its adaptability and vigor, a beautiful blend of warmth-loving and cool-tolerant ancestors.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. 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. This is typically once a week, but may vary depending on your conditions. Ensure good drainage and do not allow the plant to sit in water.

Temperature: This orchid prefers intermediate to warm temperatures. Daytime temperatures should be between 70-85°F, with a nighttime drop to 55-65°F.

Humidity: A humidity level of 50-70% is ideal. If your home is dry, you can use a humidity tray or a small humidifier.

Potting Medium: A well-draining orchid mix is essential. A mix of fir bark, charcoal, and perlite is a common and effective choice. Repot every one to two years, or when the potting medium begins to break down.

Grown in 4" pots, currently in tight spike stage~best for shipping as the spikes get really long when fully developed.