PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct midday sun which can scorch the leaves.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the potting medium approaches dryness, maintaining high ambient humidity.
Temperature
Warm to intermediate temperatures preferred; protect from frost and cold drafts.
Characteristics
- Leaves: Leathery, oblong-lanceolate, typically two arising from the apex of each pseudobulb;
- Flowers: Pale yellow-green with maroon or brown spots, featuring extremely elongated, tail-like (caudate) sepals and petals that resemble a spider;
- Pseudobulbs: Oblong-elliptic, laterally compressed, serving as water and nutrient storage organs;
- Roots: Thick, fleshy velamen-covered roots adapted for clinging to tree bark and absorbing atmospheric moisture.
Care Guide
Watering
Water thoroughly 1-2 times a week as the medium dries out.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced orchid fertilizer weakly weekly.. Flush the pot with plain water once a month to prevent salt buildup in the root zone.
Banana Peel Tea：Soak chopped banana peels in water for 24 hours, strain, and dilute 1:1 with water. Apply to the bark medium to promote blooming. Avoid leaving raw peels in the pot to prevent fungal rot and pests.Pruning
- Remove spent flower spikes by cutting them near the base with sterilized tools;
- Do not remove green, healthy pseudobulbs as they store vital energy for the plant;
- Trim away completely dead, papery, or rotting roots during repotting.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines for most orchids.
Humans: Non-toxic to humans.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: In Victorian England, the bizarre, spider-like appearance of this orchid made it a highly sought-after oddity in elite conservatory collections, reflecting the era's fascination with exotic natural history.
Usage: Cultivated as an ornamental houseplant and greenhouse specimen for its unique, architectural floral display.