vandas

Vandas are a genus of orchids (Orchidaceae) commonly referred to as vandas. The genus includes numerous species and is especially valued in horticulture for large, colorful, long-lasting flowers. They are native to tropical Asia, ranging from the Himalayas and China through Southeast Asia to the Sunda Islands and New Guinea. In the wild most vandas are epiphytes or lithophytes, growing on trees or rock faces in warm, humid habitats.

Vandas grow monopodially, with a single, elongated stem and two-ranked, leathery leaves that arise along it. They lack pseudobulbs. Aerial roots with a thick velamen absorb moisture from the air. Inflorescences are typically branched and lengthy, bearing several large flowers that can be highly colorful and fragrant.

Under cultivation, vandas require bright light and warm temperatures. Daytime temperatures around 25-34 C and nights above 15 C are typical. They prefer high humidity and good air movement. Because their roots need oxygen, they are often mounted on slatted mounts or grown in baskets with coarse media that dries quickly. Watering is frequent in the growing season but reduced in winter, and regular feeding supports growth.

Vandas are typically propagated by division when plants are mature enough. They have been extensively hybridized, producing a wide range of flower colors and forms that are popular with collectors and in floral displays.

Wild populations face threats from habitat loss and collection in some regions. In cultivation, common problems include root rot from overwatering and pests such as scale and mealybugs.