Vanda sanderiana aka Waling Waling

Water your Vanda sanderiana once daily, or every other day in cooler conditions. On hot days, two waterings may be necessary. Always water before 4 PM to allow excess moisture to evaporate before evening, reducing the risk of root rot and fungal diseases. The root tips should appear fleshy and green or purple when properly hydrated. Since these orchids are typically grown in open baskets with exposed roots, they dry out quickly and benefit from regular misting along with watering.

Vanda sanderiana is best grown bare-root in open wooden or plastic baskets, without traditional potting soil. The massive aerial root system requires excellent air circulation and is highly sensitive to water stagnation. If substrate is needed, use very coarse materials like large fir bark chunks, charcoal, or tree fern fiber worked loosely around the roots. The plant can also be mounted on tree fern slabs or driftwood. Never use fine, moisture-retentive potting mixes as this will cause root rot.

Vanda sanderiana requires consistently high humidity of 70-85% year-round. Maintain humidity by setting plants on trays of gravel partially filled with water (ensuring pots don't sit in water), regular misting especially during active growth, and keeping surrounding plants moist. In dry environments, consider using a humidifier or growing in a greenhouse. Good air circulation must accompany high humidity to prevent fungal diseases.

Vanda sanderiana is a warm-growing orchid requiring night temperatures of 21-22°C (69-71°F) and day temperatures of 29-31°C (84-88°F). It cannot tolerate major temperature fluctuations or cold conditions. RHS recommends a minimum of 15°C in winter and maximum of 30°C in summer. This thermophilic species thrives in stable, warm conditions similar to its native Philippine lowland habitat.

During active growth, fertilize weekly with 1/4 to 1/2 strength orchid fertilizer. Always water the plant first before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn from contact with dry roots. Use a balanced fertilizer during growing season, then switch to a high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen formula in autumn to encourage blooming. Reduce fertilization during winter dormancy.

The most reliable method for home growers is keiki (offset) propagation. When mature plants produce sideshoots with at least 3 roots that are 2-5cm long, carefully sever them from the parent plant using a sterilized blade and mount separately. Top-cutting is possible but risky—only attempt if the upper portion has well-developed aerial roots (at least 5 inches long) and the mother plant retains at least 2 leaves. Commercial propagation uses tissue culture for mass production, but this requires laboratory conditions.

Vanda sanderiana is a large monopodial orchid reaching 0.5-1 meter in both height and spread at maturity. Growth is slow, typically taking 5-10 years to reach full size. The stem is covered in strap-shaped leaves up to 50cm long that angle outward. A characteristic feature is the extensive aerial root system at the base. Flower spikes reach about 30cm and carry 7-10 fragrant flowers, each 8-12cm (3.5-4.5 inches) in diameter.

Vanda sanderiana blooms primarily in autumn (fall), with flowers appearing between June and August in the Philippines. The inflorescence produces 7-10 long-lasting, fragrant flowers on ascending spikes shorter than the leaves. Each flower measures 8-12cm in diameter with distinctive two-tone coloration: the dorsal sepal and petals are white or pale pink with dark brown-red spots, while the two lower sepals display a dramatic dark red tessellated pattern. Flowers typically appear in pairs on long stems.

Yes, Vanda sanderiana produces fragrant flowers. The scent is noticeable and pleasant, adding to the appeal of its already stunning blooms. The fragrance is strongest when flowers first open and is one reason this species is so highly valued in orchid collections and hybridization programs.

Vanda sanderiana is endemic to the Philippines, specifically the island of Mindanao in the provinces of Davao, Cotabato, and Zamboanga. It grows as an epiphyte on dipterocarp trees in lowland tropical forests at elevations below 500 meters (1650 feet), often near water and sometimes fully exposed to sun. Due to extensive over-collection and habitat destruction, it is now rare in its natural habitat and listed as Endangered.

Common pests include mealybugs, scale insects, aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Check regularly at leaf-stem junctions and under leaves. Treat infestations early with isopropyl alcohol on a Q-tip for small numbers, or appropriate orchid-safe insecticides. Fungal diseases include root rot (from overwatering or poor drainage), leaf spot, and various blights. Prevention is key: water early in day, ensure excellent air circulation, avoid water collecting in leaf axils, and maintain proper drainage. Remove old sheaths that can harbor pests.

Vanda sanderiana has two main natural forms: the typical pink form and the alba (white) form. Several botanical varieties are recognized including var. albata, var. froebeliana, var. immaculata, and var. labelloviridis. The species is also known by its former name Euanthe sanderiana. This orchid is extremely important in hybridization programs and has produced countless vandaceous hybrids prized for their distinctive two-tone appearance.

Vanda sanderiana requires minimal pruning. Remove dead or yellowing lower leaves as they naturally drop off after several years—these can be gently pulled away once they've dried. Cut off spent flower spikes after blooming finishes to redirect energy to the plant. Remove any dead or rotting roots during inspection using sterilized tools. Avoid cutting healthy leaves or roots as this can stress the plant and provide entry points for disease.

Since Vanda sanderiana is typically grown in open baskets rather than pots, 'repotting' involves transferring to a larger basket when roots outgrow the current container. This is usually needed every 2-3 years. Re-basket when roots are extensively overflowing and becoming difficult to water evenly. Choose a slightly larger basket, carefully work the root mass into the new container, and add coarse bark or charcoal if desired. The best time is spring when new root growth begins.

Clean leaves regularly by wiping with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. This also helps you inspect for pests hiding in leaf axils. Remove old, dried leaf sheaths from the stem as these can harbor pests and prevent good air circulation. During regular watering and misting, the aerial roots benefit from the moisture and any dust is naturally washed away. Avoid using leaf shine products as these can clog leaf pores.

In its natural tropical habitat, Vanda sanderiana experiences minimal seasonal variation. In cultivation, maintain consistent warm temperatures year-round. During active growth (spring/summer), increase watering frequency and fertilize weekly. In autumn when flowering occurs, reduce nitrogen and increase phosphorus in fertilizer to promote blooming. During winter, slightly reduce watering and fertilization but maintain warmth and humidity. This species is sensitive to temperature changes and does not require a pronounced cool rest period.