Vanda luzonica

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A 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, stem-like rhizome, covered if alternate, leaf-bearing sheaths. Strap leaves, up to 50cm long, green or dark green in colour, angle out from the main stem. As the new leaves emerge from top of the plant, old, lower leaves gradually drop off. A characteristic feature of plant is its roots system, hanging downwards from the base on the plant. New roots emerge from the central stem, following the ascending growing trend. As they grow, they attach to any surfaces, anchoring the plant. 40cm long inflorescences emerge from axils of leaf sheaths and stem, and carry 10-25 fragrant, very waxy flowers. Flowers are 6 - 7 cm across, white, with striking pink, or dark pink pattern, denser at the edges of sepals, petals and lip.

Scientific classification

Species: Vanda luzonica (Vanda luzonica)
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
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Ideal temperature

Vanda luzonica pictures

Distribution of Vanda luzonica

Distribution map

Philippines (Luzon)

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda luzonica

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Vanda luzonica care guide

Mist roots regularly, keep orchid medium lightly damp
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Mist roots regularly, keep orchid medium lightly damp

Fertilizing

Special orchid dilute feed weekly warm growth period

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.