Rhynchostylis gigantea 'Orange'

This orchid is a colour form of Rhynchostylis gigantea, displaying warm orange-toned flowers. The species is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where it grows on tree trunks and branches in humid lowland and hill forests. In its natural environment, it receives bright, filtered light, high humidity, and steady air movement throughout the year.

Plants form short, sturdy stems with thick, leathery leaves arranged in a fan-like manner. From winter to early spring, they produce long, pendulous spikes often exceeding 30 cm, densely packed with fragrant blooms. In this form, the petals and sepals are shades of orange, sometimes with gentle colour gradients or speckling, and retain the species’ characteristic fox-tail-like floral arrangement. The sweet fragrance is typically strongest in the morning hours.

In cultivation, it is valued for its vivid colour and perfume. It performs best mounted or grown in open baskets that allow aerial roots to hang freely and provide space for the arching flower spikes. Consistent warmth, high humidity, and careful watering during active growth are important for reliable flowering.

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, filtered light; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
• Water: Water generously during active growth, keeping roots moist but not waterlogged; reduce slightly after flowering.
• Humidity: Maintain 60–80% humidity with good air circulation to reduce fungal issues.
• Media: Mount on hardwood or grow in slatted baskets filled with coarse orchid bark, charcoal, and sphagnum moss for aeration and drainage.
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced orchid fertiliser at quarter to half strength every 1–2 weeks in the growing season; reduce in winter.
• Temperature: Prefers 18–30°C; protect from prolonged exposure below 12°C.
• Repotting: Repot or remount only after flowering when necessary, as it dislikes root disturbance.
• Propagation: Divide only large plants with multiple growths, ensuring each division has healthy roots and leaves.