These gorgeous hybrid orchids have stunning warm orange flowers and fresh mid-green leaves, creating a beautiful and unusual splash of colour in your indoor plant collection.
The striking flowers have the classic intricate orchid shape, held above a fan of long, narrow leaves. Their rich orange tones surround a contrasting yellow centre, creating an eye-catching display. The flowers also have a sweet, citrusy fragrance and can last for several weeks.
Oncidopsis ‘Nelly Isler’ can flower at different times throughout the year and, with the right care, may bloom more than once. After flowering, give your orchid a little time to rest before feeding during active growth to encourage future blooms.
The long leaves emerge from distinctive pseudobulbs – water-storing structures that sit just above the potting mix and help the plant cope with periods between watering.
Perfect as a gift for an orchid lover – or simply as a treat for yourself – this colourful Cambria Orchid is a wonderful way to bring long-lasting flowers and warm orange tones into your home.
Scientific Name
x Oncidopsis ‘Nelly Isler’ (Hybrid between Oncidium and Miltoniopsis)
Synonyms: x Burrageara
This orchid is a hybrid between orchids from the Oncidium and Miltoniopsis genera.
Common Name(s)
Cambria Orchid, Nelly Isler Orchid
Origin
This Orchid was bred in cultivation, so doesn't have a native environment. Both its parent genera are native to the Americas, with Oncidium found in tropical central America, including the Caribbean, and Miltoniopsis found in cooler rainforests and cloud forests in Central and South America.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. If grown under artificial lights, provide 12–14 hours of light daily to support growth and flowering. Make sure the soil is also in the light, to prevent mould forming, and ensure it gets a little morning sunlight each day throughout its autumn and winter dormancy period.
Water
Water thoroughly when top third of the soil has dried out. Avoid letting the roots sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. In winter, reduce watering frequency but do not allow the plant to completely dry out.
Humidity
Thrives in moderate to high humidity levels (50–70%). Use a humidity tray or place near a humidifier if the air is dry. Regular misting can help, but be careful to avoid the flowers or it can cause spotting on them. Browning leaf-tips are a sign that humidity around the plant is too low.
Soil
Plant in a well-draining orchid or anthurium mix; one combining bark, perlite, and coir is ideal. Repot every 2-3 years or when the potting medium begins to break down. Repotting is best done after flowering.
Food
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertiliser every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You could also supplement with a foliar orchid feed in this period. Reduce feeding to once a month in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 15-27°C. A slight temperature drop (about 5°C) at night can encourage flowering. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C or sudden draughts.
Pet-safe
Yes, this orchid is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Monitor the pseudobulbs for signs of dehydration. If they become wrinkled, increase watering slightly. After flowering, cut back spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.
Extras
This hybrid has received the prestigious AGM (Award of Garden Merit) from the RHS.
