Zelenkoa onusta, or Oncidium onustum

[Rosim_in_BR]

Impossible not to have the attention caught by these brilliant yellow flowers! The species comes from Peru, Ecuador and possibly also Colombia. The plant is small, but produces large flowers if compared to the plant size. It was sunk in the genus Oncidium until 2001 when a new genus was created for it. Honestly, I don't see the need of a monotypic genus for this species especially taking into account good taxonomic practices that recommend avoiding creating new genera to shelter only one species. But, well... what can we do besides crying?

The plant and a close up of the flower:
Zelenkoa onusta (Lindl.) M.W.Chase & N.H.Williams on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

The flower stalk:
Zelenkoa onusta (Lindl.) M.W.Chase & N.H.Williams on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[tuvoc]

Gadzooks! What a zippy Zelenkoa! Well at least it is fun to say. I don't think it really cares what we call it, Mauro, it's still going to be just as sweet.

Kim

[Rosim_in_BR]

Originally Posted by tuvoc

Gadzooks! What a zippy Zelenkoa! Well at least it is fun to say. I don't think it really cares what we call it, Mauro, it's still going to be just as sweet.

Kim

Wise words, Kim! Wise words!

[orchideric]

Dear Mauro,

I really doubt it grows in Colombia - the habitat is so distinct and straddles the Peru/Ecuador border.

Eric

[Rosim_in_BR]

Originally Posted by orchideric

Dear Mauro,

I really doubt it grows in Colombia - the habitat is so distinct and straddles the Peru/Ecuador border.

Eric

I agree, most likely not.