Vanda amoena

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A medium-sized, evergreen, tropical epiphytic orchid, valued for its unusually coloured, long-lasting flowers. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from a central tip on a long, central rhizome, while old, lower leaves gradually drop off. Strap-shaped, green or dark-green leaves up to 50cm long angle out from the stem, covering it completely. A characteristic feature of the plant is an impressive root system that hangs downwards at the base of plant. New roots emerge from the central stem, following the ascending growing trend. Inflorescences emerge from axils of leaves and main stem and carry a large number of waxy, pale blue or pale pink flowers.\r\n\r\nThis naturally occuring primary hybrid has been described in 1897. The petals and sepals are elongated, with undulate edges. Petals are twisted in 90° angle. Each inflorescence carries 8-12 butterfly-like flowers.

Scientific classification

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

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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 amoena pictures

Distribution of Vanda amoena

Distribution map

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda amoena

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Vanda amoena care guide

Mist roots regularly, submerge roots briefly weekly clean water
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Mist roots regularly, submerge roots briefly weekly clean water

Fertilizing

Highly diluted orchid feed biweekly warm growth months

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.

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Common pests and diseases

Diseases

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