Vanda tricolor

Also known as: Information to be completed

A medium to large-sized, evergreen, tropical, epiphytic orchid species. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from a central tip on a long, upright, stem-like rhizome. The rhizome is covered with alternate, leaf-bearing sheaths. Strap-shaped leaves angle out from the central stem. As the new leaves emerge from top, the older, lower leaves gradually drop off. A characteristic feature of the plan is an impressive root system, that hangs downwards at the base of the plant. New roots emerge from the central stem, following the ascending growing trend. Inflorencences up to 25cm long develop from the axils of leaves and carry up to 9 waxy, fragrant approx. 7cm large flowers. The species has many forms each differing sllightly in size, shape and number of flowers and the length of the flowering stems.

Scientific classification

Species: Vanda tricolor (Vanda tricolor)
Genus: Vanda
Family: Orchidaceae

Information to be completed
Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 1-1.5 metres
Height: 0.5-1 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Columnar upright
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Vanda tricolor pictures

Distribution of Vanda tricolor

Distribution map

Indonesia (Java to Lesser Sunda Islands)

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Information to be completed

Quick identification of Vanda tricolor

Information to be completed

Vanda tricolor care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing slight drying between waterings
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing slight drying between waterings

Fertilizing

Balanced feed monthly during active growth season

Pruning

Remove spent flower stems at the base. Old, ''leggy'' plants with bare stems can be cut during their active growing season to reduce the size of the plant. Cut through the rhizome, below the new developed set of aerial roots. Lowering apical dominance by laying plant horizontally, or hanging upside down will support the growth of new roots.

Propagation

Propagation by seed is only possible in a controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants produce sideshoots (keiki) which may be removed and potted separately, when the new roots (preferably 3 or more) are at least 2cm long.

Growing

For successful cultivation and frequent flowering, plants require high light levels and long, light days. In summer, they would benefit from being in a warm and bright greenhouse or conservatory, but direct, mid-day sun should be avoided. Highly absorbent, sponge-like roots are the principal water-storage organs. Dark green or purplish tips of the roots may be observed as a sign of actively growing plant. They are heavy feeders and require regular application of orchid fertiliser between spring and autumn. High air humidity (70 -80%), good air circulation and regular misiting should be provided frequently when in active growth. In cooler climates with shorter days, plants may go dormant in winter. Misting may be reduced to avoid rots, but plants shouldn't be left dry for long periods. Ideal temperature range is 15°C in winter and up to 30°C during summer months. Plants can be grown in an open baskets, or in a coarse, bark-based epiphyte orchid mix.

More growing and care information →

Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Generally disease-free. Poor air movement may cause bacterial or fungal rots. Good hygiene practice and sterilising cutting tools prevent the spread of virus diseases.