Vanda bensonii

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A small to medium-sized, evergreen, tropical epiphytic orchid. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from a tip on a central rhizome, which is covered completely with alternate, strap-shaped, green or dark-green leaves. With the new leaves growing at the top, old, lower leaves gradually drop off. Leaves angle out from the main stem. A characteristic feature of the plant is an impressive root system, that hangs downwards at the base of the plant. New roots emerge from the main stem, following the ascending growing trend. Multiple inflorescences up to 45 cm long appear from the axils of the leaves and the main stem, and carry up to 20 fragrant, small flowers. Petals and sepals are pale brown and tesselated, while prominent front facing lip is pink, sometimes pale purple. Contrasting centre and back side of flowers are white. Flowers have a thick waxy texure, and measure approx 5cm across.

Scientific classification

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

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Toxicity: Information to be completed
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 bensonii pictures

Distribution of Vanda bensonii

Distribution map

Eastern India, Myanmar, Thailand

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda bensonii

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Vanda bensonii care guide

Keep medium lightly moist with excellent aeration
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep medium lightly moist with excellent aeration

Fertilizing

Half-strength orchid feed every few weeks in growth

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.