Vivi's Orchid Corner

May 2003 - Volume 8, Issue 4

"An Odd Name for a Butterfly:
Psychopsis Orchids"

Dear Orchid Friends:

Psychopsis, the word is Greek meaning butterfly-like. Many think this orchid resembles a butterfly…I am more apt to think of an insect.

This orchid previously was listed under the genus Oncidicium, however, it was reclassified and given its own genus of Psychopsis. It is a relative of Oncidiums, and likes growing conditions similar to oncidiums and cattleyas. Three species are included in this genus: Psychopsis (oncidium) kramerianum, papilo, and sanderae. These orchids are native to the West Indies, Central and South America.

The flower is striking and yes, does have the oncidiums' "dancing skirt". The plant flowers with a succession of single flowers borne on long spikes. The petals and dorsal sepal are tall and thin, much like antennae on a praying mantis (insect). Lateral sepals curve outward, down and around the lip (or skirt). The lip is large and ruffled like an oncidium.

Flower colors are generally yellow and brown or rust. The lateral sepals are usually yellow with brown spots, bands or markings. The lip is a combination of yellow and brown and has a tiny edging of yellow on the skirt. Single flowers are borne on the tip of a 10-15" spike. Flowers bloom successively (one after the other) and may appear from both old and new stems, so don't cut the flower stem after it has bloomed.

Psychopsis orchids are fairly tolerant of a variety of temperatures and thrive in moderate to intermediate to warm environments (60-85 F). Higher temperatures are tolerated with humidity and adequate air movement. Provide for a medium with good drainage. Roots are fine and will die if the medium remains too wet.

Light is important. Oncidiums like medium light, but Psychopsis grow well in cattelya-like conditions, and adapt well to dappled light conditions to much stronger light.

The amount of water necessary for Psychopsis varies depending on your growing conditions. They do not like to be over-watered and require a well drained medium. Allow plants to halfway dry out between watering. When plants are in an active growth stage, they will require more water more frequently. Dry, hot weather may dry out leaves and the fine roots, so vary your watering schedule accordingly to ensure the plant remains hydrated.

Whether you think these orchids resemble flittering butterflies or interesting insects, the Psychopsis orchids are beautiful and astounding. Psychopsis orchids do "dance" and will provide you with a show flower after flower. Enjoy their dance!

Vivi