Gom. Moonshadow 'Tiger Tail' AM/AOS

Gom. Moonshadow 'Tiger Tail' AM/AOS (also referred as Onc. Moonshadow)

You might look at this and think ‘Oncidium,’ and based on your tags, you'd be in good company. For over a century, this group was known as Oncidium, but botanists recently moved this spectacular family of Brazilian species into the genus Gomesa to better reflect their unique lineage.

And this particular one, Gomesa Moonshadow 'Tiger Tail', is a real showstopper, with an Award of Merit from the American Orchid Society to prove it. The cultivar name 'Tiger Tail' is spot-on. The individual flowers are intricate and jewel-like, measuring about 1.5 inches across. What they may lack in individual size, they more than make up for in sheer numbers and visual punch. The sepals and petals have a bright yellow background almost completely obscured by dramatic, concentric stripes of deep chestnut brown. The edges are wonderfully ruffled and crisped—a trait inherited from its famous ancestor, Gomesa crispa. To top it all off, the prominent lip is a shocking, buttery yellow that contrasts beautifully with the dark patterns.

This is a modern hybrid, but its entire family tree traces back to one place: the cool, misty Organ Mountains just outside of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These orchids are used to growing in bright, breezy, and humid conditions. They typically present a full spray of these impressive flowers on a tall, stately spike in the late summer and fall. Here we are in early September, right on schedule for its blooming season.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, filtered light. An east-facing window or a spot under 50% shade cloth is ideal. The leaves should be a bright green; protect them from hot, direct midday sun.

Water: This orchid prefers to remain evenly moist, especially when in active growth. Water thoroughly just as the top of the potting medium begins to feel dry. Do not allow it to dry out completely for extended periods. As with many orchids from these habitats, using high-quality water (rain, RO, or distilled) is beneficial.

Temperature: This is a cool to intermediate grower and is not tolerant of excessive heat. It requires a distinct nighttime temperature drop to thrive. Ideal daytime temperatures are 70-80°F, with a required drop at night into the 55-65°F range.

Humidity: High humidity is preferred, from 60-70% or higher. This must be accompanied by strong air circulation to prevent fungal or bacterial issues.

Potting Medium: A fine to medium-grade orchid mix that retains moisture but still drains well is perfect. A mix based on fine fir bark with perlite, charcoal, and a small amount of sphagnum moss is a good choice. Repot every two years or when the medium begins to decompose.