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Type: Epiphytic orchid (grows on trees, not in soil)
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Origin: Endemic to Borneo, particularly in Sabah, Malaysia
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Appearance:
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Leaves: Long, narrow, strap-like, and bright green. They grow in a fan-shaped arrangement along the stem.
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Flowers:
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Small but vibrant, typically bright pink to purple, often with a contrasting lip.
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Fragrant in some specimens.
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Flowers grow in compact clusters at the ends of stems.
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Size: Relatively small compared to other Vandas, making it suitable for baskets or mounted displays.
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Growth habit: Monopodial (grows upward from a single stem) and prefers humid, tropical conditions. It can produce multiple inflorescences in a growing season under ideal conditions.
Care Guide
1. Light:
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Prefers bright, indirect light.
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Can tolerate some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn.
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Indoors, a well-lit east-facing window or under filtered grow lights is ideal.
2. Temperature:
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Day: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
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Night: 60–70°F (15–21°C)
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Sensitive to cold; do not expose to temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
3. Humidity:
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Prefers 70–90% humidity.
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Requires regular misting or a humidity tray if grown indoors in dry air.
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Good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal and bacterial infections.
4. Watering:
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Water thoroughly and allow roots to dry slightly between waterings.
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In hot, humid conditions, water 2–3 times per week; reduce in cooler seasons.
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Avoid letting roots sit in water.
5. Fertilizer:
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Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) at ½ strength every 1–2 weeks during active growth.
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Reduce feeding during slower growth or cooler periods.
6. Mounting/Potting:
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Can be grown in hanging baskets, mounted on cork or tree fern slabs, or in pots with coarse, well-draining orchid media.
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Roots need good air circulation to thrive.
7. Flowering:
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Blooms in spring or early summer.
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Flowers appear in clusters at the tips of stems and can last 2–3 weeks.
