Vanda ampullacea var. alba

Introducing Vanda ampullacea var. alba, a stunning miniature orchid native to the majestic Himalayas and surrounding regions. With its delicate features and exquisite blooms, this vandaceous plant is a true gem for orchid enthusiasts.

Description: Vanda ampullacea var. alba boasts short, simple stems adorned with suberect, distichous leaves that add an elegant touch to any space. The leaves, keeled on the underside and grooved on the top, measure 12-15 cm in length and 1.2-2.0 cm in width. During spring through summer, this plant graces its surroundings with compact inflorescences, each bearing numerous small flowers measuring 2.0-2.5 cm in diameter. The pristine white flowers, some with subtle orange hues, exhibit broad, rounded petals that create a captivating display.

Cultivation Tips:

Light: Provide Vanda ampullacea var. alba with a light level of 25000-35000 lux, ensuring moderately bright light that is slightly filtered or scattered. Avoid direct exposure to midday sun rays, while ensuring consistent, strong air movement.

Temperature: Maintain thermophilic conditions with average summer day temperatures ranging from 29-31°C and night temperatures around 22-23°C. Spring temperatures may rise to 33-36°C during the day and drop to 17-23°C at night. In winter, aim for average day temperatures of 29-32°C and night temperatures around 13-14°C.

Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels of 80-85% during summer and early autumn, gradually decreasing to 55-60% during late winter and early spring.

Substrate and Repotting: Grow Vanda ampullacea var. alba in containers with excellent drainage or on cork or tree fern rootstock with high humidity. Opt for loose, quickly drying medium bark with perlite and charcoal to enhance breathability and prevent acidification. Repot when new roots appear to prevent decay.

Watering: Water generously during active growth (late spring to autumn), ensuring roots dry quickly after watering. Avoid desiccation or soggy conditions around the roots. Gradually reduce watering as new growth matures in autumn.

Fertilizer: Fertilize weekly during active growth with 1/4-1/2 of the recommended dose of orchid fertilizer. Limit or discontinue fertilization during the rest period, particularly in winter, to prevent accumulation in the soil.

Rest Period: In winter, reduce watering to allow the plant to dry between waterings, supplementing with occasional misting early in the morning. Limit fertilization during this period to avoid buildup in the soil.

This is a blooming size in a 3" pot, about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

Experience the beauty and grace of Vanda ampullacea var. alba as it thrives in your orchid collection, bringing a touch of the Himalayas into your home or garden.