🌳 Description:

• Scientific name: Vanda spathulata, also known as Taprobanea spathulata
• Family: Orchidaceae
• Genus: Vanda / Taprobanea
• Origins: Species native to southern India and Sri Lanka
• Domestic use: An orchid with an upright growth habit, best displayed in a very bright environment with space for vertical growth and the development of aerial roots.
• Key features: Monopodial growth, elongated stems, and narrow, leathery leaves; branched inflorescences with golden-yellow flowers that have a light and luminous appearance.
• Average adult size: A large plant with stems that can exceed one meter in length; flowers approximately 3–5 cm in size.
• Flowering: Generally during the warm season, varying depending on growing conditions.

🌞 Light exposure: Intense light, with morning sun introduced gradually if at all. Shield from the strongest sun, especially in poorly ventilated environments.

🚿 Watering: Water thoroughly during growth, allowing the roots to dry between waterings. Adjust the frequency according to temperature, ventilation, and drying speed. In winter, reduce watering without imposing a prolonged dry rest; avoid waterlogging and standing water in the leaf axils.

🌡️ Minimum tolerable temperature and growing temperature: Intermediate-warm cultivation, preferably with daytime temperatures of 22–30 °C and nighttime temperatures no lower than 16–18 °C. Protect from cold and sudden temperature fluctuations.

🌱 Soil type and repotting: Use a very coarse, well-draining, and airy orchid substrate based on bark. Repot approximately every 2–3 years, or when the material deteriorates, preferably when new roots appear.

🌿 Fertilization: Apply an orchid fertilizer at a reduced dose every 1–2 weeks during active growth, to already moistened roots. Alternate with water-only waterings and reduce fertilization when growth slows.

✂️ Pruning or other recommended horticultural treatments: Cut off flower stems when they are completely dry and remove only damaged or dead parts with clean tools. Do not shorten healthy aerial roots; support the growth of the stems with a stable support if necessary.

💧 Ambient humidity: Prefers medium-high humidity, approximately 60–80%, with constant air circulation. Avoid stagnant air, especially after watering.

The dimensions are purely indicative and refer to an adult plant.

Young plants from deflasks.