Vandopsis lissochiloides
Also known as: The Lissochilus or Stauropsis batemannii Vanda batemannii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
Native to: Bali - Indonesia Thailand
General Information
The Lissochilus is a giant sympodial, monopodial warm to hot growing lithophytic or terrestrial orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Indonesia and Thailand. It is named after the An orchid Genus.
Plant Description
Monopodial. Each new growth has numerous leathery thick, erect, rigid leaves that grow to 5-60cm long
Flowers
Numerous long lasting, fragrant blossoms appear during Summer and Winter
Fragrance
The orchid is fragrant.
Blooming Season
- Summer
- Winter
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Charcoal
Care Notes
This orchid goes into a dormancy phase during winter, during this phase it is best not to provide water unless the plant is starting to look thirsty. The lack of water increases the chance of flowering in spring, and also reduces the likelihood of any rot forming. Do not resume watering until new growth has appeared and is growing strongly.
Often a period of intense growth occurs after dormancy. During this time the amount of light, water and fertiliser the plant receives will directly impact the amount of growth that occurs during this time, and in the case of seedlings, will reduce the time required to reach maturity.
It's recommended to heavily reduce the water amount at the middle to end of autumn to trigger dormancy. Leaves on older bulbs will begin to drop during this time while the newer bulbs continue to mature until terminal leaves appear at the tip of the pseudobulbs.
Repotting can be done any time of the year though it's best to do it in early spring when new growth is appearing as this also means new roots will appear to help the plant anchor into the new media and offset any damage to established roots during the repotting process.
Fragrant:
- IsFragrant
Climate
These orchids grow in cool climates, at low altitudes, in cool plains, forests or coastal scrub.
They are forgiving of humidity variances as long as temperatures are kept on the cool side. They can do well outdoors in the garden in cool and temperate areas, though it is important that they are protected from warm dry winds. They can enjoy morning sun especially in winter but will need protection from the hot sun in the afternoon and during summer. With some acclimatisation they may be able to receive more sun.
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 114mm to 234mm per day, heaviest in May and lightest in February. Humidity ranges from 78% to 84%, highest in July and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 22C to 33C, highest in April (23C to 33C) and lowest in January (22C to 31C).
Watering
These orchids are sensitive to excessive watering and should only be watered when they look thirsty. Water infrequently and ensure that the roots are dry before watering. Keep an eye on them especially during hot weather as overwatering can lead to rot, whereas underwatering may result in wilting or shriveling, which while unattractive, will not kill the plant.
Fertiliser
dormant-medium-demand-orchid Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.
Potting
These plants can be sensitive to repotting though should not require repotting regularly. Repotting should be done when the mix has broken down to the point that it doesn't absorb water or holds onto water for far too long, usually the plant shows a decline in growth as well. Repotting is best done after the growing season when the plant has died back.
The mix should be free draining, with a blend of 30% inorganic ingredients such as coarse sand, gravel or perlite, mixed in with about 70% organic ingredients such as peat, leaf litter or decomposed bark. Avoid commercial potting mixes as they can vary wildly and may contain "wetting agents" that can hold onto water for loo long, causing rotting and stunted growth.
