Vanda
Vanda is an epiphytic plant with long aerial roots that can be cultivated without orchid soil.
The Vanda orchid - an exotic genus known for its vibrant colours and elegant flowers. Find out more about the unique characteristics and care requirements of these extraordinary orchids. In Singapore, people are so fond of this flower that it was chosen as the national flower: the Vanda. It has similarities with the Ascocenda, to which it is closely related. This is immediately recognisable, as these two species have a similar appearance, a magnificent flowering spike and lush roots. Care is also very similar.
Its natural habitat extends from India via Thailand to the Philippines. It was discovered at the beginning of the 16th century. Its air-hungry aerial roots are not only there to cling to the growing medium but are also the only way of moisture supply for the plant and function like a sponge. Vanda can flower several times a year. They are very durable.
Special characteristics of the plant
Vanda orchids, including the Vanda Adelflange variety, are characterised by their striking, large flowers and sturdy stems. The flowers can come in a variety of colours, including blue, purple, white, yellow and orange, and often exude a pleasant aroma. The plants are epiphytic plants cultivated entirely without orchid soil, with long aerial roots that serve to absorb moisture and feed the plant. They occur naturally from India to Thailand and the Philippines. These orchids were discovered as early as the 16th century and are known for their air-hungry aerial roots, which function like a sponge and are the only source of moisture for the plant.
In Singapore, the Vanda is so popular that it has been voted the national flower. It resembles the Ascocenda and has a similar appearance and lush root system.
Care instructions and location requirements
For optimum growth, Vanda orchids require bright, indirect light and good air circulation. They thrive well in warm, humid environments and prefer temperatures between 18°C and 25°C. Care includes regular dipping of the roots, while the foliage should remain dry to avoid fungal diseases. A special Vanda tillandsia fertiliser can be added to the dipping water once a month to support the plant. A bright and warm location is crucial, especially if you want to get them to flower.
Flowering time and flower care
The flowering period of Vanda orchids, including Vanda Adelflange, varies depending on the variety and the environmental conditions, but can last from several weeks to months. Faded flowers should be removed regularly to channel the plant's energy into developing new flowers.
Variety of Vanda orchids
Within the genus Vanda there is a wide variety of species and hybrids that differ in flower colours, sizes and shapes. In addition to Vanda Adelflange, there are varieties such as Vanda Coerulea and Vanda Rothschildiana with their characteristic features.
Possible uses and decoration
Vanda orchids are ideal as eye-catchers indoors, in conservatories or on terraces. They can be displayed in hanging baskets, on trellises or in special orchid holders and add an exotic touch to any room or garden. They are also popular gifts for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings or anniversaries.
Special orchid care tips for Vanda (Adelflange)
They grow best in wire baskets completelywithout planting material. Vanda should therefore be dipped regularly 2-3 times a week.dippedand always in betweensprayedshould be sprayed. Caution: Only moisten the roots and not the foliage of this orchid, which is sensitive to fungal diseases. TheThe water should be lukewarmand enriched once a month with special Vanda tillandsia fertiliser. An alwaysbright and warm locationis crucial if you want to get them to flower again. In summer, you can hang them in a shady spot in the garden. A tip is to grow them in aglass vaseis recommended.
Vanda and Ascocenda have pronounced aerial roots that store large amounts of water. Unlike other orchid species, these two genera must therefore be cultivated without any substrate at all. They are therefore usually seen as hanging plants, but they also look good in glass vases or wooden baskets. If you decide in favour of a container - without a substrate - you should choose the exact size according to the volume of the aerial roots and clean it once or twice a year.
The advantage: the plants are very easy to water. Fill the container with water until all the roots are submerged without wetting the leaves. The orchid now needs about half an hour to replenish its water reserves. Then pour out the remaining water completely and make sure that no residual water remains in the leaf axils, as this will quickly lead to rotting.
As there is no moist substrate surrounding the roots, Vanda and Ascocenda need to be watered more frequently than other orchid representatives. Dip them twice a week or spray the aerial roots daily.
How often to fertilise Vanda orchids?
During the flowering period from March to November, they appreciate fertiliser in the water once a month. Only use special Vanda tillandsia fertiliser, as it meets the requirements of both species perfectly.
What temperature and light conditions does the Vanda orchid need?
Vanda and Ascocenda like it warm and humid, temperatures between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 60 to 85 per cent are ideal.
They also need plenty of light, but prefer a semi-shaded spot because they quickly get sunburnt. A north-west facing window is the best place for them. If it is too dark, your Vanda will thrive, but flower formation will be inhibited.
In summer, when temperatures no longer fall below 15 degrees Celsius, they also feel at home in the garden. However, they need a semi-shady spot and an acclimatisation phase during which they can get used to the changed conditions. From March to November, Vanda and Ascocenda delight us with their beautiful flowers up to three times.
Once the flower stalk has withered and dried out, it can be safely cut off. They do not need a dormant period to produce flowers, but they do need good growing conditions: A bright location with warm temperatures and a sufficient supply of water and nutrients guarantees lush blooms.