Vanda pumila

Also known as: Information to be completed

A small-sized, evergreen, tropical, epiphytic orchid species. As an example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from a central tip on a long, upright, stem-like rhizome. The rhizome is covered in alternate, green leaf-bearing sheaths. Strap- shaped leaves, 15-20cm long angle out from the main stem. As new leaves emerge from the tip of the stem, older, lower leaves gradually fall off. A characteristic feature of the plant is an impressive system of aerial roots. New roots emerge from the main rhizome, following the ascending growing trend. New flowering stems develop from the axils of leaf sheaths and stem and carry few, 1 to 5 small, heavy-textured, long-lasting fragrant flowers. Each pale cream or yellow flower measures up to 5cm across. Lip has dark red linear pattern.

Scientific classification

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

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Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 0.1-0.5 metres
Height: 0.1-0.5 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 pumila pictures

Distribution of Vanda pumila

Distribution map

Southern China, Himalayas, Eastern India to Southeastern Asia

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda pumila

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Vanda pumila 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.