The group of orchids now called Tolumnia were at one time called Oncidium section Variegata or commonly referred to as “equitant oncidiums”. The foliage seldom exceeds 6 to 8 inches in height, and a 4-inch pot can house a “specimen” plant. The leaves are arranged in pairs overlapping or straddling one another at the base, accounting for the popular term “equitant”.
Most of the species produce growths at short intervals along the rhizomes, resulting in a compact, clumping growth habit. A few, however, possess elongated rhizomes that create rambling tangles of growth. Flowers are produced primarily in the spring on 12- to 18-inch inflorescences that are often branched on older plants. Some types have much shorter, bouquet-like displays.
