Vanda or Vanda Orchid is a highly prized orchid valued for its large, fragrant, and long lasting flowers that come in many rich and vibrant colours, including blue, red, pink and yellow. Flowers grow to be 1-4 inches in diameter. The flower spikes will typically carry 8-10 blooms and arise from the base of the leaves. Leaves are typically flat, broad and strap-like, while some are fleshy (succulent-like). Vanda orchids are monopodial plants, which means they have a single stem and grow from the tip or the crown of the plant.
It is native to tropical climates in India, Thailand, New Guinea, the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia. Known as “air plants,” vandas do not need soil to grow. In fact, potting these beauties in soil would cause the roots to rot. In the wild, they grow on trees with their roots hanging loose in the air or wrapped around a tree. The roots are sponge-like and will absorb water quickly.
And just like the moth orchid, the vanda orchid would make a beautiful, long lasting houseplant! It can be grown either in a pot or in a hanging basket with fir bark. The average flowering period for vandas is 6 to 8 weeks. Newer hybrids will bloom several times a year! As a tropical plant, vandas do best in warm, humid environments. Misting the flowers frequently will help increase the humidity. Water at least once or twice a week, more often in the summer months. Give the orchid plenty of bright, but indirect light.As well, be sure to fertilize regularly, as these orchids are heavy feeders.
Fun Flower Facts about the Vanda Orchid:
- The Vanda was first discovered in 1613 by Alvin Semedo.
- The name Vanda came from the Sanskrit word for orchid.
- Vanda Miss Joaquim is the national flower of Singapore.
- Vanda coerulea (Blue Orchid), which produces spectacular blue flowers, is considered a rare and endangered species. It is illegal to uproot these flowers from the wild.
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