About
A large-sized, evergreen, tropical epiphytic orchid, valued for its large, unusually coloured, long-lasting flowers. FLowers are well spaced on a long, often multiple inflorescences flowering simultaneously. It carries the best qualities of its parents: over 10cm large, flat flowers, covered in individual a mosaic pattern of bright blue/purple lines, on a white background. This primary hybrid registered in 1931, is the most popular and important in all blue-flowered hybrids. Multiple infrorescences emerge from axils of leaves and stem, and carry 10 or even more, flat, round shaped flowers. New roots emerge from the main stem and follow the ascending growing trend. A characteristic feature is an impressive root system, hanging downwards at the base of the plant. As new leaves appear from the top of the plant, the old, lower leaves gradually fall off. Strap-shaped, green or dark green leaves, up to 60cm long, angle out from the main stem. As a typical example of monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from the central tip on a long, stem-like rhizome, covered in leaf-bearing, alternate sheaths.
About the genus
A medium to large-sized, evergreen, tropical epiphytic orchid, valued for its large, bright-coloured, long-lasting flowers, often used by florists. As a typical example of a monopodial orchid, the new growth emerges from a central tip on a long, central rhizome, while older, lower leaves gradually drop off. Strap-shaped, green or dark-green leaves, up to 60 cm long angle out from the main stem. A characteristic feature of the plant is an impressive root system that hangs downwards at the base of the plant. New roots emerge from the central stem, following the ascending growing trend. Inflorescences emerge from axils of leaves and main stem, and carry up to 8 large, waxy, round-shaped flowers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Care notes
CultivationFor 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.
PruningRemove 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.
PropagationPropagation 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.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. Thrips can cause damage on flowers and developing flower buds.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free. Poor air movement may cause bacterial of fungal rots. Good hygiene practice and sterilising cutting tools prevent the spread of virus diseases.