Calanthe vestita - Showy Terrestrial Orchid with Upright Flower Spikes

Calanthe vestita - Showy Terrestrial Orchid with Upright Flower Spikes

Calanthe vestita is a captivating terrestrial orchid native to Southeast Asia. It is prized for its upright spikes adorned with numerous white and pink flowers, which often emit a pleasant fragrance.

Distinctive Features

• Growth Habit: This terrestrial orchid grows in the ground, unlike epiphytic orchids that grow on trees. It produces pseudobulbs, which are thickened stems that store water and nutrients. The pseudobulbs give rise to large, pleated leaves that can reach up to 60 cm (24 inches) in length.
• Flowers: Calanthe vestita produces upright flower spikes that can reach up to 90 cm (35 inches) in height. Each spike can bear up to 15 flowers, which are typically white with a pink or purple lip. The flowers can measure up to 6 cm (2.4 inches) in diameter and often emit a sweet fragrance.
• Versatile and Adaptable: This orchid is known for its versatility and adaptability. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, in a wide range of temperatures and growing conditions.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
• Water: Water regularly, keeping the potting media moist but not soggy. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
• Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity levels, around 50-70%. You can achieve this by misting the plant regularly or using a humidity tray.
• Temperature: This orchid prefers intermediate to warm temperatures, ideally between 18-28°C (64-82°F) during the day and 13-18°C (55-64°F) at night.
• Potting Media: Use a well-draining orchid potting mix, such as bark or a mixture of bark and sphagnum moss.
• Fertiliser: Fertilise weakly, every other week during the growing season (spring-summer) with a balanced orchid fertiliser.
• Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Additional Notes

• Calanthe vestita is a relatively easy orchid to care for, making it suitable for beginners.
• Its fragrant blooms and upright spikes make it a standout in any orchid collection.
• This orchid can be grown in pots or in the ground in warmer climates.
• With proper care, Calanthe vestita can bloom reliably for many years.