Vanda denisoniana

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A large-growing, evergreen, tropical epiphytic orchid species. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from the central tip of a long rhizome, covered in leaf-bearing, green sheaths. Strap-shaped, green or dark green leaves up to 30cm long, angle out from the main stem. As new leaves emerge from the tip, old leaves lower on stem gradually fall off. Large aerial root system hangs downwards at the base of the plant, attaching to any surface is it grows. New, thick roots grow directly from the main stem, and follow the ascending growing trend. Inflorescences, up to 15cm long emerge from axils of the leaf sheaths, in late winter and spring. Each flowering stem carries 4-6 waxy flowers, approx. 5cm in diameter. A distinctive feature of this species and its hybrids is its lip: with two large, white, fiddle-shaped side lobes. Flowers are usually bright yellow, but dark yellow-orange and pale varieties occur in nature and in cultivation.

Scientific classification

Species: Vanda denisoniana (Vanda denisoniana)
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 denisoniana pictures

Distribution of Vanda denisoniana

Distribution map

Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda denisoniana

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Vanda denisoniana 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.