PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers bright, indirect or filtered sunlight; direct midday sun can scorch the leaves.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is almost completely dry, ensuring excellent drainage.
Temperature
Thrives in intermediate to warm temperatures with a slight drop at night to encourage blooming.
Characteristics
- Leaves: Leathery, strap-like, bright green leaves emerging from flattened, ovate pseudobulbs;
- Flowers: Large, branching panicles bearing numerous bright yellow flowers, characterized by a prominent, flared lip (labellum) resembling a dancer's skirt, often with reddish-brown markings near the center;
- Roots: Fine, white epiphytic roots adapted to grasping bark and absorbing aerial moisture;
- Stems: Arching or pendulous floral spikes that can reach up to 90 cm in length.
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly, allowing water to flush through the pot, about once a week.
Fertilization
Apply a weak, balanced orchid fertilizer every two weeks.. Flush the pot with plain water once a month to prevent salt buildup from fertilizers.
Banana Peel Tea：Steep chopped banana peels in water for 24 hours, strain, and dilute 1:1 with water. Use as a root drench to encourage blooming. Discard solids in compost to avoid fruit flies and odors.Pruning
- Cut flower spikes down to the base using sterilized tools after all blooms have faded;
- Remove dried, brown, or yellowing pseudobulbs and dead, hollow roots during repotting;
- Do not remove green, plump pseudobulbs even if leafless, as they store water and energy for the plant.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines.
Humans: Generally recognized as safe and non-toxic to humans.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Highly prized in Western orchid collections and exhibitions for its spectacular, long-lasting floral displays and relatively forgiving nature compared to other orchids.
Usage: Popular indoor ornamental plant, greenhouse specimen, and frequently used as a striking cut flower in high-end floral arrangements.