Vanda roeblingiana

Vanda roeblingiana is an epiphytic orchid species native to the Philippines, particularly found in the mountainous forests of northern Luzon. It produces long, upright to slightly arching stems with leathery strap-shaped leaves arranged in two ranks. The flowers are notable for their broad, spreading petals and sepals, usually in shades of pink to lavender, often with darker markings and a contrasting lip in purple or magenta. The inflorescences emerge from the leaf axils and carry several blooms at once, with a light, pleasant fragrance. In its native habitat, this species experiences warm to intermediate temperatures with high humidity and good air movement year-round.

Care Tips:

• Light – Requires bright light, including some direct morning or late afternoon sun; avoid harsh midday rays.
• Water – Water frequently during active growth; in warm weather, daily watering may be needed, while in cooler months reduce slightly but do not allow the roots to remain dry for long.
• Humidity – Prefers 60–80% humidity with strong air circulation to keep the roots healthy.
• Media – Often grown in slatted baskets or mounted to allow roots to hang freely; can also be grown in coarse orchid media with excellent drainage.
• Temperature – Thrives between 18–30 °C; avoid temperatures below 12 °C.
• Fertiliser – Feed weekly with a diluted orchid fertiliser during growth; flush with plain water regularly to prevent salt build-up.
• Repotting – Repot or remount when the plant outgrows its basket or mount, preferably in spring or early summer.