Onc. Heaven Scent 'Sweet Baby'

Oncidium Heaven Scent 'Sweet Baby' produces one of the most delightful and powerful fragrances in the entire orchid family—a rich, sweet scent that is unmistakably like vanilla and milk chocolate. On a warm, sunny morning, the fragrance can fill a room. It’s the reason this orchid, and its parent grex Oncidium Sharry Baby, became world-famous.

This incredible scent is a gift from one of its primary ancestors, a Central American species called Oncidium ornithorhynchum, which is known for its sweet, vanilla-like perfume. The flowers themselves are a perfect example of "more is more." They are relatively small, only about an inch to an inch-and-a-half across, but they are produced in astounding numbers. A single, long, arching, and often branched flower spike can carry well over a hundred blooms, creating a spectacular, cascading waterfall of color. The flowers are typically a deep, velvety maroon-red, with the prominent lip often edged in a contrasting crisp white.

The plant itself is a robust and vigorous grower. It produces large, smooth, egg-shaped pseudobulbs that store plenty of water and energy, making it a fairly forgiving orchid. Topped with long, strap-like leaves, a healthy plant will quickly grow into an impressive specimen. As we enjoy this beautiful September weather, we're right in the peak season for these orchids to be showing off their incredibly fragrant and dramatic floral displays.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. An east-facing window that receives some gentle morning sun is ideal. The leaves should be a medium, grassy green; dark green can indicate not enough light to bloom well.

Water: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is approaching dryness. During active growth, this may be every few days. The large pseudobulbs indicate it can tolerate some drying, but avoid leaving it dry for extended periods. Wrinkled pseudobulbs are a clear sign of insufficient water.

Temperature: This is a very adaptable orchid that thrives in intermediate temperatures. An ideal range is 60-85°F. It is generally tolerant of typical household conditions.

Humidity: Moderate humidity of 40-60% is sufficient. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues.

Potting Medium: A medium-grade orchid mix based on fir bark, perlite, and charcoal is a standard choice. Due to its vigorous growth, it may need to be repotted every one to two years, preferably just as new growth starts.

Grown in 4" pots.