Rhynchostylis gigantea 'White' – Fox Tail Orchid

Rhynchostylis gigantea 'White' is a cultivated form of the species Rhynchostylis gigantea in the Orchidaceae family, selected for its pure white flowers. The species is native to parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches in warm, humid forests. It typically inhabits areas with bright, filtered light and good air movement, often near rivers or in open woodland edges.

The plant forms a short stem with thick, leathery leaves arranged in a fan-like pattern. In winter to early spring, it produces long, pendent flower spikes that can exceed 30 cm in length, densely packed with numerous fragrant blooms. In this form, the flowers are entirely white, lacking the pink or purple spotting often found in the species. The inflorescences resemble a fox’s tail in their shape and density, a feature that gives rise to the common name.

In cultivation, it is valued for its abundant, long-lasting flowers and strong perfume. It grows best mounted or in baskets to accommodate its pendulous flower spikes and aerial root system, which prefers high humidity and regular watering during active growth.

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, filtered light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
• Water: Water regularly during active growth, keeping roots moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering slightly in winter after flowering.
• Humidity: Requires high humidity (60–80%) year-round, with good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
• Media: Best grown mounted on hardwood or in open baskets with coarse orchid bark, charcoal, and sphagnum moss to allow airflow around the roots.
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced orchid fertiliser at quarter to half strength every 1–2 weeks during growth; reduce frequency in winter.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm conditions, ideally 18–30°C; protect from temperatures below 12°C.
• Repotting: Repot or remount only when necessary, ideally after flowering, as the plant resents root disturbance.
• Propagation: Division is possible, but only on well-established plants with multiple growths.