Vanda roeblingiana

Also known as: Information to be completed

A large-sized, evergreen, tropical, cool-growing epiphytic orchid growing on trees at higher altitudes in Philippines. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges on a central tip of a long, upwards growing, stem-like rhizome. Green, linear, alternate leaves up to 20cm long angle out from the main stem. As new leaves appear on the top, older, lower leaves gradually drop off. A characteristic feature of the plant is a system of aerial roots, hanging downwards at the base of the plant. Roots are silvery-green when dry and are a main source of water and nutrients, as well as anchoring support for the plant on the branches of trees. New roots emerge from the central stem, following the ascending growing trend. Flower stems up to 30cm long carry 8-15 fragrant, long-lasting flowers. Each flower is approx. 5cm in diameter. Petals and sepals are yellow, heavily covered with red, or chestnut-brown markings. Prominent feature is the lip, which is divided into two forks, with frilled edge. The lip of this species is the most elaborate in the genus

Scientific classification

Species: Vanda roeblingiana (Vanda roeblingiana)
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 roeblingiana pictures

Distribution of Vanda roeblingiana

Distribution map

Philippines

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Vanda roeblingiana

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Vanda roeblingiana care guide

Keep potting medium lightly moist, airy, and never stagnant
Watering: Partial shade · Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep potting medium lightly moist, airy, and never stagnant

Fertilizing

Half-strength orchid feed every two to three weeks in active 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 or fungal rots. Good hygiene practice and sterilising cutting tools prevents the spread of virus diseases