India through S China and Taiwan

A three to five flowered inflorescence arises in the spring prior to the new growth. The flowers are urn shaped- cream coloured with heavy red spotting and striations; the lip is yellow. Plants are medium sized terrestrials with large solid pseudobulbs.

Eastern Madagascar

Charming dwarf (to 3 inches) plants in the Angraecum family with grey-green coloured leaves. The plants produce 2-6 cup-shaped flowers per inflorescence. The flowers, up to 3cm across are large for the size of the plant. The pure white blossoms are waxy, long-lived and night fragrant. Plants prefer intermediate to warm conditions with moderate light.

Thailand and Malaysia

Generally speaking, Aerides tend to be very large plants making them unsuitable for in-home culture. (I've Aerides in the greenhouse where the plants and their root systems, together, are taller than I am.) Aerides krabiensis is a dwarf plant and likely the smallest plant of the genus reaching not much more than 8 inches in height. The plants produce up to 15 blossoms that open simultaneously on each inflorescence. The flowers occur in varying shades of red-purple or rose, and the lateral sepals often are almost white at the center. The blade of the lip is colored more deeply at its center. Plants prefer high light with warm temperatures and year round even watering. In pot.

Philippines

Recently described, this is the smallest member of this 3 species genus, with plants really no larger than 2 cm. This species is also found growing in the mountains of Luzon Island. A very lovely species the flowers dwarf the size of the plant. The widely spread, fragrant blossoms are up to 3 cm across and are beautiful crystalline pure white with yellow to orange stripes in the lip. Plants are easy to grow in moderate light and intermediate conditions. This species benefits from a slightly dryer winter rest.

Philippines

Found in the mountains of Luzon Island this species is larger than philippensis. Plants have light green leaves to 16 cm long. Up to 5 flowers are born per inflorescence. The widely spread, fragrant blossoms are up to 6 cm across and are beautiful crystalline pure white. Plants are easy to grow in moderate light and intermediate conditions. This species benefits from a slightly dryer winter rest.

Philippines

Plants are found in the mountain rainforest area growing as epiphytes. Miniature Phalaenopsis-like plants (3-4 cm), in the Angraecum family, produce 3-4 flowers that are about 3 cm across. The lovely white flowers are large for the size of the plant, and are sometimes fragrant. While they usually open in succession, each blossom is long lasting, and it is not unusual for several to be open at a time. Each blossom has a spur that continues to lengthen as the flower ages, eventually growing to about 10 cm long. Plants are easy to grow in moderate light and intermediate conditions.

Sierra Leone east to D..R. of Congo, Uganda, Angola

These dwarf plants, usually consisting of a tuft of pendent or upward curving flattened stems to 25 cm long have numerous very fine roots arising between the leaves from the lower parts of the stem. The glossy dark-green, deciduous leaves are arranged in 2 rows producing a braided appearance. The small white crystalline flowers (3-4 mm) emerge from between alternating leaf axils and often open with the lip held uppermost. Plants form clumps readily and cuttings can be rooted from side branches. These warm growing plants thrive in lower light and humid conditions.

Cormoro Islands

Plants carry an elongated stem and are medium size. Mature plants produce many new growths. Flowers arise from the leaf bracts and are white of strong substance. A graceful species in the 'vine' group of Angraecum that does not get too large and very easy to managed with pot culture.

Northern Madagascar, Coromo Islands

Well known Angraecum species with attractive sickle shaped leaves. Plants produce 1-7 long lasting pure white, fragrant flowers. Species grows well in warm Cattleya conditions with a dryer winter rest to ensure blooming.

Western and Northern Madagascar.

A great medium sized plant (less than 12 inches when mature). This species produces 3-5 flowers (that are approximately 3 inches wide) per inflorescences, but when grown well the plants can produce multiple, simultaneous spikes. The rather thin textured flowers are white; but the sepals and petals are sometimes greenish or yellowish, while the lip is always white. Flowers of this species also carry a spur that is between 3-5 inches. Plants require intermediate conditions under Cattleya light (2000-3000 f.c.). They should be allowed to dry between waterings. This species does benefit from a dryer winter rest. Fragrant.

Peninsular Thailand, Malaya, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and the Philippines.

An absolutely stunning species which becomes are large as it is beautiful. The plant form of this species is a large terete vine that is normally found in nature growing up the sides of trees. The plants produce singular or branched inflorescences with many flowers per branch. The blossoms, which open fully, have a strong musky fragrance. Sepals and petals are pale yellow-green marked with broad, irregularly horizontal dark purple-brown bars and spots. The small, fleshy lip is has reddish brown lateral lobes, a much smaller pale yellow midlobe, and a callus with several orange keels. The column is white or cream. The flowers are approximately 4 inches in length and 3 inches wide. Plants are warm growing and should be placed in light as bright as possible, short of direct midday sun which may sunburn the leaves. Water regularly. Fragrant.

Celebes

Smaller Vanda type plants produce up to 40 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers, which are up to 1 cm across, are bright orange in color, with the side lobes and throat of the spur being darker orange and the anther cap being dark red. Plants produce multiple growths when mature. Brighter light in intemediate to warm conditions suit these plants well. Stick mounted plants (can be sunk into a pot if necessary). Easy.

Mexico

These plants are about eight-inches and have an ascending habit. The tall spikes emerge from the center of the new growth and display five or more showy lavender blossoms near the apex. Each attractive flower has wind-swept petals and a white patch on the large lip.

Mexico southward through Central America to Venezuela

Similar to its well known sister, Brassavola nodosa, these plants have a single fleshy, leathery leaf on each growth which is almost terete (pencil-like) and is only 7mm wide. The slender leaves are mostly pendulous or arching downward. Plants produce 1-3 long-lasting blossoms that are fragrant at night. The flowers are up to 7 inches across when expanded, but the long, narrow, rather limp sepals and petals are usually somewhat pendulous. The sepals and petals vary from white or yellowish with white margins to greenish white. They are usually red-flushed on the outer surface or near the long, pointed tips. Plants prefer intermediate to warm conditions with quite bright light.

Costa Rica, Panama

Brassia orchids are known as the "spider" due to the large petals. This species has narrow petals with a few brown/red barring. The white lip is speckled in black spots.

Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador

Fantastic spidery blooms on an arching inflorescence; creamy green with brown markings. The flowers of this species hold their petals somewhat forward. Compact growing.

South China and Vietnam

Medium size clumping plants produce 1" flowers singly which have a sweet fragrance. Fully opening flowers are white with pink stripes and margins. Very pretty species. Pleasantly fragrant.

Papua, New Guinea

The unusual, almost primitive looking flowers are greenish white heavily marked with dotted red strips. Warm growing easy plants.

Sierra Leone to Congo and Uganda

True to its name this species has a coconut fragrance. Small clumping plants are tidy. Up to 40 tiny cream flowers with pink or red sepals are carried on a graceful arching inflorescence. Easy.

Papua, New Guinea

The flowers of the species appear on a thick rachis. Many tiny cream flowers with red to orange stripes and markings.

Borneo, Sulawesi

One of the largest flowers in the genus, up to 16" in length! Lower sepals are yellow-green overlaid with reddish-copper venation, dorsal yellow-green. Mobile lip is hinged, dark red and furry and has a long thin rod-like appendage on the tip, which bobs around like crazy! (Fly-pollinated and you know what that means, so hold your nose!)

Thailand, Sumatra, Borneo, Bali, Java

This small size clump forming plant has a freely branching rambling rhizome that produces 1 inch pseudobulbs which are topped by a single 5 inch long narrow leaf. The truly bizarre 1-1/2 inch flowers look more like little animals than plants. The greenish-bronze sepals and petals are covered with red spots; lateral sepals are swept back while the dorsal sepal and petals curl towards the black lip which rocks both side-to-side as well as back and forth (not only up and down as with most Bulbophyllums). Some find the fragrance of grapes or cherry cough-syrup. Very interesting botanical.

Papua, New Guinea

I like this plant very much. The vibrant orange flowers of this species certainly catch the eye. Warm growing easy plants that prefer a dryer winter.

Thailand, Sumatra

An almost medium sized plant. Produces vivid single star-shaped flowers. The flowers are of heavy substance, dark reddish-brown/burgundy with raised darker spotting. Very showy blossoms always seem to catch the eye. Not commonly found in collections. Plants prefer brighter light and intermediate conditions. Very vigorous growing plants from good stock.

Thailand, Malaysia

Lovely little plant, the are only a little more than an inch tall. Large (for plant size) bizarre flowers are borne one per inflorescence. This is the ˇ§attractive color variation that is a pale yellow throughout with light red spots.ˇ¨ (Siegerist, 2001)

Papua, New Guinea

Many small lovely lilac coloured flowers are born on a mid-sized rachis.

Thailand, Malaya, Philippines, Borneo

For the size of this plant it produces very large flowers, which are yellow-gold on tall stems held singly above the plant. Mobile lips rock gently in the breeze, while the flowers sway back and forth. Well known clone.

Thailand

This well sought after species is renowned for its spectacular flower displays. These plants (to 8 inches) produce 5 to 10 flowers per inflorescence. The blossoms are exceptionally long; at 8 to 11 inches. The lateral sepals are pale rose-red marked with darker colored veins. The very small petals are somewhat smaller than the dorsal sepal have ciliate (hairy) margins and are reddish in color. The small lip is green. Easy growing plants prefer warm to intermediate conditions with medium light. Fragrant. Large divisions in cedar baskets.

North Thailand

This Bulbophyllum produces clusters of rich maroon-red flowers on congested long inflorescences. These intermediate-warm growing plants prefer moderate to bright light with regular watering and a slightly dryer winter rest. The rewarding plants are easy to bloom and grow under lights or in windowsill culture.

Thailand, Laos

Many lovely crystalline white flowers are born on a mid-sized rachis. The specific plants we carry have a pink hue to the flowers.

('Elizabeth Anna' X lasiochilum)

The flowers of this small plant are born singly. Very similar to lasiochilum although the colour and size on these bow-legged flowers is much improved. Recommended.

(fascinator X longissimum)

This medium sized plant produces larger flowers with lovely long pedals. The flowers are a yellow colour heavily marked in pink-red tones and also bear small palae on the lateral sepals. The best of both parents in presentation.

Japan, Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan and South China

This fairly hardy terrestrial orchid is from the mountains of Kyushu Island in Japan. Wild populations of this species in most parts of Japan are now rare due to habitat loss and over collection. Cal. reflexa is a terrestrial orchid with handsome evergreen leaves that have a slight sheen to them The plant carries spikes of large white to pink flowers with bright yellow and orange spotting and veining on the lip. The spikes are typically 8' to 15" tall. This is one of the rarest and most beautiful Calanthe species, rarely seen in cultivation. This Calanthe is a cold to cool growing species preferring lower light.

Western Himalayas, Assam, Bangladesh, Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan, Nepal, China, Vietnam, Japan, Korea and Taiwan

The plants we carry are from Japan and are found in the central and southern region of the country as a terrestrial or lithophytic plant in mid-elevation forests. This evergreen species has attractive clumps of dark green leaves. Calanthe reflexa is often associated with cool and humid locations such as areas close to rivers, therefore excessively hot and dry conditions should be avoided in cultivation. This August-blooming species is unusual for its late summer bloom. The plants carry lovely shaped bi-colored lavender-pink and white flowers. Some clones are lightly fragrant. Intermediate, low light.

Brazil, Guyana, Venezuela, Peru

For many years I've been an avid collector of Catasetum species almost at times to the exclusion of other plants. I'm pleased to be able to offer this seldom seen species from very good stock. Ctsm. planiceps belongs to the large most often green flowered grouping which includes macrocarpum, maculatum, integerrimum and so forth. The warm growing, moisture loving plants produce stunning, extremely fragrant green bell-like flowers, who's shape is reminescent of Foxglove. As with most Catasetum species the plants enjoy strong light, warmth and plenty of fertilizer when growing. When the leaves fall a dry dormant rest is required.

Mexico to Nicaragua

Mexico to Nicaragua. Bifoliate species has heads of many 1 1/4" orange flowers. Smallest flowers in the genus but has the brightest colors. Tolerant species - easy to grow - found growing on rocks or trees in areas of extreme heat and cold.

Mexico to Nicaragua

Variation of C. aurantiaca in that the flowers are yellow with heavy red spotting in the throat.

Belize, Guatemala

Rare in nature. Five to twenty 3" flowers per stem, uniform rosy-purple. The lip is darker purple with a brighter maroon band towards the throat. "Plants of this species regularly flower in the fall or early winter, hence one of its names, autumnalis." (Withner, 1988) Tolerant of heat, sun and low humidity..

Brazil

I acquired this plant many years ago. Cattleya forbesii has many color variations to its flowers from plant to plant. The flowers on this variation are white with some purple markings and a primarily yellow lip. The flowers show very gracefully. This Bifoliate Cattleya is a good choice for beginners. Divisions of my mother plant.

Ecuador, Peru

I'm always open to looking into Cattleya species that I really have never seen personally in flower and I came across this plant. This beautiful unifoliate species produces 2-4 fragrant blossoms that are about 3 inches across. The sepals and petals are creamy white to straw-yellow. The lip is milky-white to straw yellow with red veining in the throat. Plants are easy to grow, requiring even year round conditions and watering. Uncommon.

Good fun. Cattleya X hardyana (a natural hybrid between C. warscewiczii and C. dowiana) is a great performer - beautiful lavender flowers with big yellow "eyes" in lip. B. nodosa imparts easy growth and floriferousness.

Philippines

This orchid is known only from the mountains of Nueva Ecija Province on Luzon Island. Oddly related to the Angraecum family, this very small succulent plant has leaves not reaching more than 2.5cm. These little guys produce up to 4 flowers per inflorescence. The extremely crystalline blossoms have bright red or orange sepals and petals and a lip that is white with pinkish purple markings. The spreading flowers are very large in comparison to the plant, measuring 1cm across the spreading petals. Plants require bright light and warm conditions. A dryer winter rest is beneficial. For these best success with these plants use pure or rainwater. Rare

Ecuador and Peru

This species produces several single, rather spreading blossoms that are carried at the apex of the inflorescences. Flowers have sepals and petals that are pale to dark tan-yellow with 4-5 brick-red longitudinal veins, a white to pale purplelip with a darker bluish purple callus. Plants are small to medium size preferring warm temperatures low light and good air movement.Plants are good candidates to grow with Phalaenopsis. Note: Many growers find this species difficult to cultivate in bark-based medium. Tree-fern is recommended.

Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica

Chondrorhyncha lendyana is a clump-forming plant related to Zygopetalum. The plants have rich green leaves to 12 inches. A single 1 inch creamy yellow blossom is carried at the apex of each inflorescence which arises from the leaf axils or from the base of the leaf fan (These plants really do not have pseudobulbs per se.) The flowers are rather cupped shaped in their natural position with the forward-pointing dorsal sepal, lip, and petals. The plants can flower several times per year. Cooler-intermediate growing plants enjoy medium light, humidity, and plenty of air movement. Uncommon in collections.

Vietnam

A small to only moderately sized plant that resembles a mini vanda with a leaf span of about 5 inches. Three to five flowers are produced per inflorescence. The flowers have green to yellow sepals and petals and a lip that has yellow lateral lobes, a white midlobe, and a yellow spur at the base. Flowers are about 4 cm tall from the tip of the dorsal sepal to the tips of the lateral sepals and about 3cm wide across the petals with the base of the lip formed into a long spur. Warm growing with a dryer period from January to late March.

India, Malaya,Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia

Lovely umbels in rose mauve and yellow colours. Easy.

Malaya, Peninsular Thailand

Flowers are burgundy over a yellow background, arranged in a tiny umbel. Easy.

India

This orchid carries smaller umbels of cream/orange flowers on spike that are the same size as the plant's leaves.

Colombia

Small clumping epiphyte produces showy displays throughout the year. Sepals and petals are dark red-brown with bright yellow tips (Differs from pusilla in the throat and keels). Lip is red-mahogany with contrasting white border. Very cute displays. Cool to intermediate.

Philippines

Small, tidy growing plants produce 2-4 fragrant flowers that last 3-6 weeks. Flower are held near the end of the inflorescence. Each flower is about 5 cm across with sepals and petals that are yellowish to pinkish white or cream colored.The large, showy lip has a base color the same as the other flower parts but is decorated with pale orange-brown markings. Plants grow well in moderately bright conditions in intermediate temperatures. Plants require a 4 month dryer winter rest beginning in late December. Fragrant.

Sulawesi

Rarely found in collections this very impressive and desirable Coelogyne species is a strong, robust epiphyte with growths to 30 inches tall that are closely spaced on a very short rhizome. The plants form an inflorescence to 10 inches. The scape is erect, with large numbers of flowers carried in a crowded, cylindrical raceme that is about 2 inches in diameter. The flowers which have an open aspect, are white with brown markings on the yellow lip. Plants readily form very impressive specimens. Intermediate to warm conditions in moderate light are best. This species does best with consistent watering and does not require a dry winter rest.

Borneo, Malaysia

This seldom seen Coelogyne species is a small plant with interesting dark-green, leaves of a very rough texture. The inflorescence is produced at the onset of new growth. The numerous flowers, to 15, have unusual buff- orange colouration in the sepals and petals. The trumpet-like white lip flairs open to reveal heavy rays orange veining and spotting and the midlobe is delicately 'painted' as in many Coelogyne species. Plants prefer moderately bright light with intermediate to warm year round conditions.

Philippines

Undoubtedly one of the more graceful Coelogyne species; this botanical is endemic only to the Mindanao Island in the Philippines. Large, graceful leaves are held atop rather spindle-like, closely set pseudobulbs. The large white flowers are splendid with wide spreading sepals and narrower petals. The large fimbriate burnt-orange lip of this plant is just outstanding! The plants bloom consecutively, with one or two flowers open at any time from a long, thin inflorescence that emerges from the unfolding growing leaves. Plants prefer warmer conditions in moderate light. Good air movement is beneifical to this species.

South Asia

This larger sized Cymbidium (around 2 feet or more) with fleshy leaves grows evenly year round in intermediate conditions. Long pendulous flower spikes hang over the pot presenting lovely cream/red flowers that open in succession. Specimen plants make lovely displays. Divisions of my mother plant. Vigorous growers.

(Cymbidium devonianum X Cymbidium Rathel)

The best intermediate at the 2003 Tokyo Dome Show. Showy, multiple, long pendant spikes holding many maroon red flowers. This Japanese bred variety is not often seen in Canada. A larger plant (2 feet), it grows and flowers best when given intermediate Cymbidium treatment with bright light. Multi-growth, blooming sized plants. Sweet fragrance.

Ecuador

Many rather small, fragrant blossoms (1 inch)are produced from a 3' inflorescence. The blossoms are colored rose-purple to brownish purple except for a patch of yellow on the crest of the lip. Plants prefer higher light in cool conditions. This is a stunning orchid.

Hainan, China and near Quang Tri, Vietnam

Section: Callista. These medium to near larger plants produce several flowers per inflorescence. Plants may produce more than one inflorescence from older canes. The 2 inch flowers have sepals and petals that are usually pale rose, but they may be white in some plants. Also rose or white, the large circular lip is minutely toothed along the margin. The large, centered patch of orange hairs does not extend all the way to the margin. Long, lateral hairs at the base of the lip differentiate D. amabile from other closely related species. This species prefers intermediate conditions with bright light. Plants require a lessening of water through the winter months.

Philippines

Section: Calcarifera. Well known for its beautiful flowers this medium to larger sized plant produces 15-20 flowers per inflorescence. The waxy blossoms are about 3-4 cm across. The white sepals and petals open fully and may have amethyst at the tips. The lip is tubular with a large, vivid purple stain in the center. All floral segments are pointed. Flowers are fragrant and last 3-4 weeks. Plants have very specific requirements for successful cultivation- they prefer less light than most Dendrobiums; light levels between 1500-2500fc are sufficient. The most important factor with this species is its need for cooler temperatures. Averages for the habitat indicate a narrow cool intermediate grower: 12 degrees at night to not much higher than 25 degrees for daytime temps. Plants also require a 4 month winter rest beginning in late December. Fragrant.

Philippines

Section- Dolichocentrum. This attractive medium to eventually larger sized plant resembles bamboo canes with thin stems and lovely alternating narrow leaves. Flowers are produced individually from summer to winter on leafless canes. Plants produce a single 2.5 inch graceful white flower from the upper nodes of the stems The flowers have a large slightly frilly spade shaped lip that is greenish yellow at the base. Fragrant of rose. Lovely botanical.

India, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, SW China

Section- Formosae. A very showy miniature Dendrobium. The small plants (to 2") have cigar shaped pseudobulbs that are covered in tiny black hairs as is the underside of the leaves. The plants produce 1 possibly 2 fragrant, long-lasting, crystalline blossoms. The two inch flower has creamy white sepals and petals with green veining. The lip is brilliantly colored with yellow at the base, a pink or very deep purple patch near the apex, vermilion on thesidelobes, and a bright orange-red tip. Plants prefer bright light in intermediate temperatures with a cooler, dry, winter rest. Plants are from stock that produces darker coloured flowers.

Malaysia, Peninsular Thailand

Section- Pedilonum. This semi-pendant plant has a graceful form with long thin stems and bright green leaves. Two to three electric yellow/saffron flowers are produced on older leafless stems. The 2 inch flowers are brightly coloured and may have a red flush in the throat. Plants prefer intermediate/warm conditions with bright light and plenty of water during the growing season. During winter water needs to be slightly reduced.

New Guinea and the Molucca Islands

Section-Calytrochilus. 6-10 blossoms are produced per inflorescence. The flowers are 1+ inches across.Sepals and petals are deep rose-pink, and the lip is bright orange to orange-vermilion. The lip is folded at the apex with a toothed, uneven margin. Medium sized plants grow well in warm, brighter conditions with a slighter dryer winter rest. Easy.

Widespread on islands of the Southwest Pacific

Section: Oxyglossum. Small plants with lovely red/green deciduous leaves. The flowers, of variable colour, are 2.0-4.5cm long. The sepals and petals are usually cream frequently overlaid with mauve or other shades of red, purple, or pink. The lip is most often a paler shade of the same color. The blossoms resemble an open fan. These plants do best if grown on the cooler side of intermediate with good humidity. Moderate light is best and if given proper light the leaf colour becomes red which indicates enough light for good blooming. Plants will suffer if allowed to dry out or if humidity is consistently low.

Laos, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines

Section- Platycaulon. These small sized plants (2-8 inches) have lovely flattened pseudobulbs. This variety is endemic to Borneo. The plants produce pendulous 1 inch blossoms from upper nodes and are shaped like a flared funnel. Normally the sepals and petals of this species are creamy yellow to greenish white, however the Sabah variety have a pronounced pink to violet colouration that darken with age. The lip, which is narrow at the base and broad at the tip, is green with an orange cast at the center. Plants prefer medium light; intermediate to warm conditions with a slighter dryer period from January to March but should not become completely dry.

Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Sumatra, Borneo, and southern Malaysia

Section- Breviflores. Clusters of blossoms arise from the uppermost nodes of leafless stems. They are held at right angles to the pseudobulb. The plants produce 4-6 per inflorescence. The waxy flowers are 2-4 cm across. Sepals and petals are rose to pink. The lateral sepals are broad at the base. The cupped lip is light yellowish pink contrasted by the dark purple anther cap. This vine-like Dendrobium to 2 feet in length enjoys bright light with year round moist, warm conditions. Water should be lessened during the winter months (December through March).

Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo and Sarawak

Section- Distichophyllum. Medium sized rainforest epiphytes produce several flower spikes from nodes along the canes that successively bloom as the plant matures (similar to Den. uniflora which is also placed in the Distichophyllum section). Unusually shaped orange flowers are set off by the plants darkly coloured leaves and stems. The upside down (non-resupinate) flowers resemble little nun's caps. The plants flower freely from late spring onward and bloom for most of the summer. Easy going plants require moderately bright light in intermediate to warm conditions. A slight reduction of water in winter may be beneficial but the plants have no dormant season. Highly recommended.

Dendrobium moniliforme, also called the Japanese Stone Orchid has a very interesting history in Japan from its rise as a medicinal herb promoting 'long-life' to it eventually becoming popular with orchid enthusiasts. It is a small epiphytic orchid native to East Asia (into Korea and China, as well as Japan and Taiwan) found growing on rocks and tree branches. This species will grow in moss, orchid bark or mounted to a cork/tree fern slab, or even on rock. Any media should very well draining while retaining some moisture. The plants do suffer without good air movement around the roots. This species does require a much dryer/cooler winter rest to set flower buds. It will tolerate winter temperatures down to 45 degrees or less if kept dry. In summer, the plants enjoy medium to very bright light. In many cultivars, brighter light produces a more vivid variegation/colouration in the leaves, which is a notable feature of these plants. In the summer, regular waterings and using a low nitrogen fertilizer are keys to good leaf colour and strong flower production. Many of the plants produce kei-keis that are best removed when they form roots and can be potted up and will bloom in a couple of years.

Section-Dendrobium. Light pink flower with a dark spot on the base of the lip.

Japan

Section-Dendrobium. This species is a particulate favorite of mine. Compact growing variegated form of this native Japanese species - narrow green leaves are streaked with white and an occasional pink blush - white fragrant flowers may also be tinged with pink. The plants should be grown as Nobile Dendrobium with a cooler/dry winter rest. This species is highly regarded in Japan.

Section-Dendrobium. Another famous pink cultivar with unusually deep colour, especially around the tips of the segments.

Section-Dendrobium. Popular darker pink clone, more even coloration than Nikko.

Japan

Section-Dendrobium. Green and yellow variegated leaves are set off by light yellow canes. This spring bloomer carries white lightly fragrant flowers with a light purple flush in the throat. This species is highly regarded in Japan for its colorful leaves and yellow pseudobulbs. When grown with strong light the mature leaves become brightly variegated The plants should be grown as Nobile Dendrobium with a cooler/dryer winter rest(or at minimum, a dry-rest beginning mid-November when the leaves may fall until the flower buds begin to appear under lights).

Japan

Section-Dendrobium. Easy to grow variety with white streaks around the edge of the round shaped leaves. Flowers are also said to be slightly larger than normal. These plants were founded in Kochi, Japan.

Philippines

Section: Formosae. A stunning and very desirable Dendrobium species from Luzon Island. Tall cane plants produce 4-12 per inflorescence along the nodes of the stem. The flowers are 5-8 cm across. A variation of the "major" clone the flowers are just slightly smaller, showy, and crystalline white. The petals are broad, flaring, and rounded, but the sepals are narrower and pointed. The lip has a notched, broadly ovate midlobe. The throat is suffused with green/yellow and some plants may show purple striations around the column. Plants enjoy bright light in intermediate conditions. A dryer, cooler winter rest initiates the blooming cycle in the this species. One of my favourites!

Philippines

Section: Formosae. A stunning and very desirable Dendrobium species with some of the lovliest flowers of the Formosae group. Tall cane plants produce 4-12 per inflorescence along the nodes of the stem. The flowers are 7-10 cm across. They are large, showy, and crystalline white. The petals are broad, flaring, and rounded, but the sepals are narrower and pointed. The lip has a notched, broadly ovate midlobe. The throat is marked with sharply contrasting red or plum-purple parallel stripes. Plants enjoy bright light in intermediate conditions. A dryer, cooler winter rest initiates the blooming cycle in the this species. One of my favourites in all its variations!!

Philippines

Section: Formosae. These medium sized plants carry 3-7 showy, waxy, long-lasting flowers per inflorescence. The serenely beautiful flowers are 6-9 cm across and open very flat. All the flower segments are a crystalline white. The lip may have a purple tinge at the base. The disk is emerald green. Easy to grow plants enjoy warm/intermediate conditions in brighter light. This species requires consistent year round conditions and does not require a winter rest. Fragrant.

Japan, Taiwan, China

Section- Dendrobium. This lovely, modest sized deciduous epiphytic or lithophytic species is known as Dendrobium tosaense when used in hybridization (International Orchid Commission). The plants produce 3-8 flowers per inflorescence which arise from the upper nodes of 2-3 year old leafless canes. The 3cm flowers are pale greenish yellow and have slightly recurved petals. The lip is marked with a few dark purple lines or streaks below the center. The column is pale green. This species requires bright light with plenty of water during the spring to autumn growing season. During the winter, the plants need a reduction of water (not a hard dry rest) as well as cooler temperatures to flower well during the spring months. Simple, lovely elegance!

Laos, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines

Section-Densiflora. These medium sized plants at 8-18 inches, have somewhat flattened pseudobulbs that are grooved and spindle-shaped with a slender base. The pendulous inflorescences emerge from upper leaf axils of both leafy and leafless stems. The showy cupped or bell-like flowers are bright orange-yellow with darker lines. The orange lip has red veins and brown or red-brown patches of nerves on either side at the base. Plants prefer brighter light and intermediate conditions. This species requires a much drier winter rest to flower properly. Blooming plants are outstanding! Fragrant. Blooming sized plants are currently being pot established in our greenhouse.

Malaysia

Section- Pedilonum. This species is currently undergoing a taxonomic review in Malaysia. "Dendrobium tannii" is an unpublished name that has been applied to a compact form of D. bracteosum that has been on sale in nurseries since early this year. Discovered by Mr. Tan, the species has a dark pinkish-maroon lip, a colour that is rare in the wild population of D. bracteosum. It also has one phenotypical difference to the normal D. bracteosum: the column foot has a large round protruding lump that fits tightly into the callus on the lip, thereby making the lip totally immobile. Plants prefer higher light with intermediate to warm year round conciliations. Flowers are extremely long-lasting. Fragrant.

Vietnam

Section-Breviflores. The very desirable plants have flattened 5 inch pseudobulbs with silvery sage-green leaves - 1 inch long-lasting baby pink flowers with ice green center and black lip - new species described in 2003.

Thailand, Burma, SW China, Laos, Vietnam

Section- Formosae. Referred to the "Golden Chicken-beak Orchid" in Thai, this lovely Dendrobium is small in size- normally to 5 inches (but may reach up to 9-12 inches depending on the plant's genetic make-up). The pseudobulbs of the species are spindle shaped with leaves that are normally covered with short black hairs. The very waxy flowers are 2 inches across, which is large for the plant size. The sepals and petals, which may be bright golden yellow or pale straw yellow, taper to a sharp point. The darker yellow lip is green in the center with red lines on each side. Plants enjoy bright light and require a cooler, dry winter rest in order to bloom. Fragrant. These plants can be somewhat difficult.

Widespread through Southeast Asia

Section: Distichophyllum. A great plant fondly known as the "popcorn" orchid in many Asian countries. Very desirable, I've had one of these plants in my own collection for many years. This plant has an extended blooming period through Spring and Summer producing long lived flowers sequentially along the stems. The heavily textured flowers are to 3 cm across. They are initially creamy white/green becoming yellow with age. The pointed sepals and rounded petals are generally flat but may be somewhat recurved. The lip is white to pale green and may be marked with yellow and brown. It has large, deeply notched sidelobes that tend to curl under the midlobe. The lip has keels that may be violet, orange, or crimson keels. Charming flowers! The plants are easy to grow in intermediate conditions in moderate to bright light with even year round watering.

Widespread in southeast Asia

Section: Dendrobium. A very impressive larger Dendrobium species. Described as magnificent, the plants produces inflorescences on nodes of year old leafless canes with 2 to 3 flowers each. The waxy flowers are 8-10 cm across. The broad sepals and petals are thick and blunt at the tips. They are white with a variable amount of bright magenta-rose near the tips. The white lip has a rich orange to lemon yellow blotch, purple veins, 2 purple blotches near the base, and magenta-rose at the apex. The flowers are long-lasting if kept dry and cool. Plants require intermediate conditions with bright light. A dry, cool, winter rest is necessary to promote spring flowering. A great candidate to grow with other Nobile Dendrobiums. Fragrant.

Philippines

Certainly never to be overlooked when in bloom- these smaller plants produce 13 to many flowers rather twisted around the inflorescence. Sepals and petals usually are cream-colored to light green and often are suffused or spotted with pink toward their bases, however with this cultivar the flowers are much more of a dark pink to light red colour. The lip and column are cream-colored and are suffused with pink near their bases. The fleshy blossoms are somewhat cupped with a dorsal sepal and petals that are more or less erect at the base but are strongly reflexed or curved toward the rear above the middle. A very desirable species for those who enjoy Dendrochilum. Plants enjoy the cooler side of intermediate temperatures in Cattleya light. A slightly dryer period from January to March is beneficial. As with all Dendrochilum species, plants form nice colonies quickly.

Borneo

We are very pleased to be able to offer this extremely rare Dendrochilum which is very difficult to find in cultivation and is endemic only to Borneo. The plants are medium-small size epiphytes or terrestrials with thin textured pale-green leaves and close set cylindrical pseudobulbs. The erect to arching inflorescence arises from the new growth producing long chains of many flowers. The flowers are wide spreading brownish-green to wheat colour with a white column. The notable almost purple-black lip of the species provides an amazing contrast in colour compared to most available Dendrochilum species. Warm to intermediate conditions and medium light suit the plants well. Be the first to own this wonderfully different Dendrochilum. Rare!

Borneo lowlands

Dimorphorchis lowii is a rather large monopodial epiphyte similar in form to Vanda. Plants produce extremely long flower spikes with many, widely spaced blossoms. The flowers are 3 inches across. The lower 2 or 3 blossoms have bright, tawny yellow sepals and petals marked with small reddish brown spots. They are broader, shorter, and fleshier that the other flowers. The remaining blossoms have deep red to chocolate brown sepals and petals marked with light yellow areas, especially near the apex of each segment. The plants require year round warm conditions under moderate light. (These plants do not grow under high light conditions.) Stunningly different!

Sabah in riverine and lower montane forests on the eastern slopes of Mt Kinabalu in Borneo.

Similar to Vanda form, this is a true wonder of the orchid world - two distinctly different flowers blooming on the same inflorescence! Truly dimorphic (referring to the flowers- meaning two distinct forms.) The upper orange/yellow flowers are very pleasantly scented and the lower white-speckled ones have no scent. The plants are noted for the long flower spikes that arise from the leaf axils.
Conservationists in Borneo have reported that within five years that this species will most likely become extinct within its natural habitat. The plant is a excellent candidate for those who work within the field of orchid conservation and flasking. Premium quality plants. Likes intermediate to warm temperatures with bright light.

Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, the Philippines, and Java

I was very lucky to be able to acquire of few plants of this seldom seen species. Almost all monopodial (Vandenacious) orchids are in some way related to the Aerides family of orchids. This species, however, is more closely related to Cymbidium and appears rather like a flattened Vanda. The plants have an interesting habit of rooting to the host tree from either the sides or the back of the plant. Warm growing plants require good light similar to that of Cattleya.This species carries 8-12 flowers per inflorescence. The spreading, heavily textured flowers, which all open at the same time, are 3-4 cm across. They are whitish but heavily spotted with crimson on the outside, with the spots showing more faintly on the inside. Plants are in pot, mounted to tree-fern totems.

Ecuador

Member of the Pleurothallis family. A true curiosity.- these plants are hands down hairy. The leaves, stems, inflorescence, as well as the flowers! Plants are smaller sized with quite thick leaves. The bizarre flowers are produced singly from the apex of the leaf. The cream coloured flowers are heavily suffused, spotted and veined in maroon. The dorsal sepal curves forward over the lateral sepals which are fused to form a pouch. The interior of the 'pouch' is also heavily marked in maroon. The plants are strangely alluring. Low light, cool/humid conditions. Not recommended for beginners.

Colombia

Small rambling plants are 5 or 6 inches tall. Several small 3/4" upside-down cockleshell flowers have brightly coloured flowers. Cream colored petals with various central magenta streaks, lip is white with magenta lines. Very interesting plant form.

Brazil

Smaller plants produce up to 15 flowers per inflorescence. The showy flowers are medium to large in size for the genus, measuring 2 inches across. Flowers have spreading sepals and petals that are colored yellowish brown but are filigreed with dark red-brown veins. The lip midlobe is white but may yellow with age and is marked in the center by 7-9 roughened parallel veins of dark orchid-magenta that extend up from the white and yellow callus. Very rare.

Vera Cruz, Mexico

The "Beak-carrying Encyclia". Medium size cool to warm-growing epiphyte in pine trees. Three to seven 1 3/4" very fragrant flowers. Interesting flowers are beige to pale green, long and thin in shape, with a long knife-like lip. Rare.

Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Bolivia Ecuador

A lovely reed steam plant. When not in bloom plants are midsize strong growers. The plants produce quite long flower spikes with heads of tiny beautiful pink frilly flowers that open in succession. Can be in bloom for months.

Peru

"The Far Crawling Epidendrum". Miniature mat-forming plants with plump rigid foliage make this plant attractive out of bloom as well. Many greenish waxy flowers have a red suffusion. Very nice, quality species.

Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil

Well know dwarf Epidendrum with creeping stems that eventually form dense mats. Plants easily grow into specimen size. Epidendrum or Neolehmannia porpax as its now referred to, produces a profusion of insect-like, 1 inch, flowers with greenish sepals and petals. The lip of these particular plants is dark red. Easy to grow in intermediate conditions. Quite showy.

Philippines

These tough looking plants have squat, ovoid pseudobulbs, shiny, and greenish yellow that often become papery looking with age. Small plants produce to 15 flowers per inflorescence. The large flowers, which open fully, are usually 6-7 cm across, They are star-shaped, and well spaced along the inflorescence. The lance-shaped, sharply pointed sepals and petals are pure white with a contrasting yellow/orange throat most often rayed in purple red. The lip in these flowers recurves in a lovely fashion. Uncommon.

Peninsular Thailand through Malaysia and into Borneo and Sumatra

Related to Bulbophyllum, This species grows to about 8 inches with thick, cylindrical pseudobulbs. The arching to pendulous inflorescence is produced laterally from the base of a leaf toward the apex of the pseudobulb, and as many as 5 may be produced at the same time from a flowering growth. Flowers are very closely spaced in a dense, cylindrical raceme that is about 1 in. (2.5 cm) in diameter arranged along a rachis that is completely hidden but is reddish, terete, and covered with hairs. The flowers, which vary in color from white to deep pink, have sepals with darker edges, and the top of the column and the anther are dark red. Moderate light in intermediate conditions.

Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, and Bali

To 12 inches The plants have egg-shaped to conical, thick and fleshy pseudobulbs. The erect to arching flower spikes emerge from anywhere along the pseudobulb, emerging along the axil of the sheaths that enclose the pseudobulb. Usually, 2 inflorescences are produced at the same time. Plants produce 15-30 blossoms per inflorescence. The white flowers, which have a variable amount of brown or purple on the lateral lobes of the lip, are about2 cm) across and have a slightly unpleasant fragrance. Moderate light in intermediate conditions.

Burma, Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and Java

Plant size is to 20 inches with stem-like pseudobulbs. The plants produce one to four erect to arching or horizontally held inflorescences are produced from nodes toward the apex of the pseudobulb. The fragrant blossoms are about 2cm across. The sepals and petals are light greenish yellow, the lip has a lemon-yellow midlobe and purple lateral lobes, and the column is yellowish with a white apex. Intermediate to warm conditions in moderate light. Fragrant.

Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru and Brazil

This species is a medium to larger sized plant, often with black pseudobulbs. The waxy, fragrant blossoms usually open at the same time. Up to 35 are produced per inflorescence. Flowers widely spread, approximately 1 inch across, and vary in color. Sepals and petals are most often golden yellow or brownish yellow with a variable degree of maroon or red-brown flush, particularly along the margins. However, this flush may be almost absent in some varieties. The lip has a small white midlobe that is spotted with red, and the much larger lateral lobes at thebase of the lip are yellow to yellow-brown with darker veins with avariable amount of maroon. Frequently, the base of the lip has a very darkmaroon to almost black spot. The column is white at the base but becomespale green toward the apex. Very showy and desirable plants enjoy brighter light and warm conditions.

Widespread through SE Asia

As one would expect with a species found over such a wide range and having as many synonyms as this one, The flowers are extremely variable, ranging from a few per raceme to 3-9 per raceme reported in China to 10-25 per raceme reported from Sumatra. The flowers may be spreading or not widely spread, and vary in color from white to reddish purple, sometimes with whitish pink sepals, and a lip with yellow keels on the disc. In general, flowers are about 2-3 cm across. Plants require quite bright light in warm conditions. A dry rest is necessary when the foliage dies back. Easy. Uncommon.

Burma, N. Thailand, Laos, S. China, Vietnam

A showy terrestrial species, with dark green plicate leaves similar to Calanthe. An easy to grow, small sized species this plant produces upright inflorescences that appear as the underground pseudobulb is maturing; each carrying clusters of up to 10 flowers. The very fragrant white flowers are presented with a bright yellow lip and contrasting pink-purple anther caps. Plants prefer intermediate-warm conditions under medium-low light, with regular watering. Please note that this species is evergreen and requires no hard rest; treat as a warm growing Calanthe. Uncommon and great for a windowsill.

Mexico

Gongora are related to Stanhopea and the flowers do last longer. The genus is quite varied in terms of colours and shapes of the pendant flowers, though many appear bird-like .This medium sized plant is easy to grow and flower with both windowsill culture and under lights. The plants prefer a moisture retentive medium and medium light with intermediate to warm conditions. The orchid prefers constant moisture but should be kept slightly drying when it begins to form flower spikes, which in this species hang over the edge of the pot. Progressive spikes are produced through the summer months carrying brown-yellow non-resupinate flowers with a bright orange lip. The flowers are quite attractive and strongly fragrant. Gongora flowers do last longer than those of Stanhopea. Established divisions of my parent plant. 5" pots.

Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Celebes, Philippines

This particular orchid is rare to find in collection or for sale. The large plants produce flower spikes that become pendant to hang over the pot. Ten to twelve 2" flowers are produced with flowers all facing one direction, usually somewhat downward. The showy, long-lasting, waxy, rather foul-smelling blossoms are carried on each inflorescence. The light brown flowers are heavily blotched with dark brown or dark violet, often appearing almost black. A lucky acquisition for us.

Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaya, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines

Small phalaenopsis type of plants with leaves to 5 inches. Plants have persistent inflorescences that should not be removed until they die off naturally. The blossoms are produced 1-2 at a time over a long period from spring to fall, and each one lasts only 1-3 days. The pale yellow sepals and petals are heavily or lightly spotted or barred with red. The lip is white with light brown or reddish lateral lobes, and the column is white or yellowish white. The spreading to somewhat cupped flowers are 1.5cm across.

Thailand

Habenaria is a very large genus of perhaps 600-800 species found in tropical grasslands extending across Asia, Africa and South America. These plants have foliage which dies down after flowering, while the fleshy tubers "rest". Its good to remember that most of the world's terrestrial orchids have evolved to withstand harsh or seasonally dry environments and then to quickly send up their growths and flower when the rainy season commences or when conditions become conducive. Habenaria rhodocheilia is one of the dramatic species. Very colourful head of many fuchsia pink, lightly fragrant flowers on attractive foliage. Plants prefer warm to intermediate conditions in medium light when actively growing. When the leaves begin to yellow and fall its time to set the plant in a cooler area to give it a dry winter rest with only an occasional misting. Resume bottom watering when the plant has leaf growth to about 1 inch. It's important not to get water in the new growth as it may rot off.

Burma, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China

Formerly classified in the Vanda group the plants have pendant terete leaves similar to long rat-tails to 3 feet long. The white to pale pink blossoms are fragrant, spreading, and about 1 in. This orchid will tolerate a wide temperature range, but it does prefer a cooler/dryer winter season. Plants grow best with strong light. This species has an extremely powerful fragrance - some say gardenia, jasmine, or mock orange. Mature plants to 20 inches.

New Calendonia

I'm pleased to be able to offer this very desirable and outstanding species. Formerly classified under Dendrobium, the plants are robust and moderately sized at around 20 inches at maturity. The attractive plant has large fleshy leaves and as the plant matures weaves a fascinating "basket" around its swollen egg-like pseudobulbs. These plants have the capacity to produce up to 150 per inflorescence. The large, showy flowers are 2.5-3.5 cm across. The sepals and petals are greenish yellow with dark red blotches. The lip is very dark red with bright yellow at the tip. The blossoms close at night and reopen in the morning. May bloom twice per year. The plants require intermediate to warm conditions in lower to medium light. Plants should be allowed to dry between regular waterings.

Mexico

A charming smaller growing Laelia species to no more than 10 inches. A lovely arching inflorescence produces up to 9 long-lasting flowers each being 1 to 2 inches across. It has been noted in this species that the flower colour varies considerably from one locale to another. The sepals and petals are usually white, light gray, or cream-colored. The lip is normally pale to dark rose, but it is sometimes white. Some plants have blossoms that are entirely rose-colored with a darker rose lip often with red-purple rays in the throat. The plants require bright light and grow best in cool, dryer conditions. A winter rest is necessary to promote blooming.

Brazil

A small plant of 5-7 inches, they produce a single (large for the plant) rosy pink to dark mauve flower that is about 2 inches across. The flower is noted for its large trumpet-shaped lip. The throat is white with prominent velvety, dark coloured red-purple veins. The plants prefer the cooler side of intermediate in Cattleya light. (The leaves will become red if the plant is grown at its uppermost light limit.) They require a 2-3 month dryer winter rest.

Brazil

Laelia perrinii is likely Sai-Hung's all time favourite. We're pleased to be offer this variation of this specatular species. This colour variation has large well-displayed 6 inch flowers that are white with only a small splash of light pink on the tip of the lip. Needs less light than most Laelia species.

Brazil

"The Queen of the Laelias." L. purpurata is found in the coastal areas of Brazil, south of Rio de Janeiro. "The plants were once so common they were said to grow even in the sands along the beaches!" (Withner, 1990) Ease of culture, as well as extremely showy presentation make L. purpurata a favorite of orchidists the world over. Large flowers, 3-5 per inflorescence. White, with an intense clear dark purple lip with darker striations.

Brazil

"One in a Million". This is an unusual cultivar of L. purpurata - it has lavender flared petals with lavender striated petals with a much darker colouration in the lip. Grown well the plants can be a showstopper!

Brazil

Purpuratas are quality orchids in my way of thinking. These plants have white flowers with a magenta picotee around edge of lip. Very dramatic.

Brazil

These small plants (3-5 inches) are members of the rupiculous group of Laelias that grow on or among rocky areas (fossilized sand-stone in this case) often in near to full sun conditions . Plants produce 1 perhaps 2 long-lasting blossoms. The flowers are 3-4 inches that are quite large for the size of the plant. The rose-purple flowers have a yellow throat with dark rose-purple on the midlobe and the edges of the sidelobes. The plants prefer intermediate to cooler conditions and do require very bright light to flower. When growing they ought to be watered often but must not stay wet at the root for long periods. They also require a cooler, dryer winter season to bloom well.

Myanmar, Taiwan, Philippines

Smaller compact, epiphytic species produces many brightly coloured greenish yellow flowers, often shaded in orange to red, that have strongly reflexed sepals and petals. Often overlooked in collections the plants are quite different and have unusual showy flower displays. Plants enjoy warm conditions in Cattleya light. Water should be reduced in late winter from January to March.

Borneo, Sabah, Java, Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra, Timor, New Guinea, Philippines

A very attractive all-around plant. "Liparis" refers to the shiny plant leaves of this species, while "latifolia" refers to the wider leaves. Moreover, the plant has a notable red-green colour to the foliage. Quite nice! This terrestrial species enjoys warm, fairly shady conditions. The plants produce an upright inflorescence with variable coloured flowers similar in form to Liparis grossa, though with Liparis latifolia having notably darker coloured blossoms tending towards a waxy darker brown/orange. This trait is particularly noted in the lip.

Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia

Plants are similar to the sister species oerstedii however, the flowers are solid yellow with red spotting in the lip and throat. The leaves of the species often give it the nickname of the Braided Orchid. Easy to grow in intermediate higher light and less humid conditions. Mature plants to 1' in length.

Ecuador

This member of the Lycaste family prefers slightly more shade and cooler conditions than many others. With no defined rest period the flowers arise from mature pseudobulbs. Long inflorescences hold a single large icy green flower. Very lovely flower form.

Costa Rica, Panama

A smaller warm grower of the Maxillaria family, arachnitiflora produces many white to cream flowers that remind one of spiders. Very unusual yet lovely plants. Not common in collections. Plants grow intermediate to warm.

Mexico south to Ecuador

A smaller species that prefers some humidity. The singly born flowers can be variable from yellow to most commonly orange with various darker red markings. Flowers are nicely fragrant.

Mexico to Costa Rica

A very unusual maxillaria. Has vandanaceous growth habit (with large egg sized pseudobulbs) The flowers are produced from within the leaf axils. Clusters of variable bright yellow to vivid orange flowers with a red lip. The flowers are fragrant. Blooms through the year. The plants can get to be quite tall (3'), but can be kept short as the plants divide very easily and are very easy to set up as specimens.

Ecuador

Single flowers are borne on tall spikes. A large flowered species the sepals are a brownish tan colour set off by stunning white petals that curl to resemble a handlebar moustache. Very showy and unusual blooms! Easy to grow, medium size plants, prefer the cool side of intermediate. The plants bloom at least twice a year with the flowers lasting three to five weeks. Not readily available.

Colombia and Ecuador

The large flowers, measuring up to 8 inches are among the showiest of the maxillarias with their tiger-like markings. The long, narrow, sharply pointed sepals and petals are yellow marked with irregularly shaped reddish or purplish brown blotches. The flowers are nodding, facing more or less downward, with the sepals and petals spreading somewhat at the base but curving forward near the base so that their tips hang downward for the most part. Medium sized plants prefer cooler to intermediate conditions.

New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu

This pendulous epiphyte/lithophyte species has paired dark green leaves on rambling stems. Each single blossom is urn/bell-shaped and approximately 1/2 inch in size. The flowers bright red and white are certainly eye-catching. The colour difference of the flowers is notably more striking than the yellow-orange of the more common Medi. decoratum. The plants are free flowering, creating a display a few times per year. Plants prefer medium light, intermediate-cooler conditions and consistently moist conditions. When not actively growing water can be reduced slightly but the plants should not become completely dry. Rare.

Comoro Islands

Plants are vigorous growers related to the genus Angraecum. Compact phalaenopsis-like plants form clumps quickly. The plants produce an abundance of pendant spikes densely covered with small metallic-looking star shaped orange flowers. Really special in bloom.

Tanzania (tropical east Africa)

Unusual monotypic terrestrial species that is loosely related to Polystachya. These plants (to 3 feet) resemble tropical grass with a reedy stem and many narrow leaves. The stems are often branching, and numerous offsets may be produced. The rather short, erect flower spike emerges at the apex of the stem with the flowers arranged in a dense, round cluster at the apex of the inflorescence. The fragrant, long-lived blossoms (often 10 or more) are rather cup-shaped, do not open fully, and measure about 3 cm long by 2.5 cm wide. Flowers have white sepals and petals, and white lip with a golden-yellow center and 2 rows of red-magenta spots along each edge of the yellow area. Fragrant of cucumber, mature plants are almost ever-blooming. These plants need quite high light during the warmest part of the year and are well suited to growing out of doors during the summer months with just some protection from the midday sun. Plants need a dryer period from December to April with the highest degree of moisture needed in the Fall months.

Neofinetia is an epiphytic orchid from East Asia (China, Korea, Japan and the Ryukyu Islands) that grows on tree branches. The pretty, fragrant flowers bloom in summer. Often referred as the 'Samurai orchid', the flowers can vary from white, to pinks, and even yellows. Delicate, long-lasting and very fragrant the flowers show nicely with their long nectar spurs. Culturally, they need good air circulation and prefer cool temperatures in winter. The plants grow best when given strong light (I grow mine at 55% of full sun.). Neofinetia will grow in sphagnum, bark mixtures, and also mounted. They require regular watering and fertilizer in the growing season but they must dry between each. These plants are epiphytic in nature and grow openly on tree branches and twigs where there is constant air movement on the roots. Keeping these plants on the dryer side is very important to health of the plant/roots; it's also the main reason why many people kill them. Keep them cool and dry in the winter. When growing these plants indoors they should be watered every 10-12 days. They do not require a hard dry rest unlike other species. When dry they can take temperatures down to almost freezing without damage. The Japanese have been growing selections of these orchids for hundreds of years. They remain very popular and quite often very expensive orchids.

Japan

This species is highly regarded in Japan as'Fu-ran' or Wind Orchid, where different varieties can cost thousands of dollars. It is also commonly referred to as the Samurai Orchid. The growth habit is similar to a strap leaf vanda though on a miniature size. The plants are variable in size up to 6 inches. This particular plant is noted for the crystalline flowers, which have pink hued flowers with a darker coloration on the nectar spur. It has pleasing strong fragrance.

Japan

The notable feature of this cultivar is the strongly variegated leaves, making the plant attractive in or out of bloom. The perfectly white crystalline flowers are fragrant. Mature multi-growth plants.View plant form here.

Japan

This particular cultivar is has much smaller green leaves. This bean-leaf variation is quite stunning both in plant form as well as the different form of the flowers. The much shorter inflorescence bears flowers that are upward facing. The sepals and petals of the variety are almost the same length, giving the appearance of small stars. The nectar spur is also much shorter than in the common form. Large multi growth plants.View plant form here.

Japan

The cultivar is called a Needle leaf variety. As is typical for the needle leaves, the flowers arise from the apex of the leaves and eventually the flowering growth will also begin to die off. However, it will produce many new side shoot growths. These little guys multiply nicely into a nice clump of plants. With this particular variety, just be sure there is no standing water in the leaf axils as they can be fussy about this problem

Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela

Smaller Odontoglossum species produces lovely 2 inch clown-like yellow flowers with red-brown spotting on the sepals and petals. The red-brown lip turns back on itself slightly and creates a frilly pouch effect. Plants are intermediate growing preferring medium light. Fragrant. Easy.

Guyana and Venezuela

Oerstedella are closely related to reed type Epidendrums. This new cross has some of the largest most dramatic flowers of this type of primary hybrid. Oer. wallisii has yellow flowers with red spotting, while caligaria has two tone pink flowers. This crossing has produced plants (to 18 inches) that have outstanding red patterns against a yellow background. The large frilly lips are a notable feature of this cross. The arching to pendulous racemes , emerge from the axils of the uppermost leaves. This Oerstedella hybrid will flourish in Intermediate to warm conditions with medium light. Plants prefer an open medium but should not dry for long periods.

Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia

These charming dwarf plants form lovely clumps with growths that average 5-6 inches tall. The numerous relatively small (1/2 inch), fragrant, glossy blossoms are produced on each panicle, with 1-3 carried on each branch. The vivid yellow or greenish yellow flowers are fragrant. Plant are free flowering enjoying medium bright light in Intermediate conditions. Cute.

Ecuador

Showy long branched sprays have large 3" flowers. Greenish sepals and petals with thin bars of purple. Lip is light pink blending to dark purple at the base.

Jalisco and Michoacan Mexico.

Many interesting 3" star-shaped flowers on 3 1/2 ft. inflorescences have narrow waxy sepals and petals - yellow covered with large red-brown blotches. Contrasting lip is pink, transitioning to pale pink at the lip. Flowers are of good substance and are truly enjoyable.

Peru and Bolivia

Found in the canopy of tropical rainforests this warm growing species carries a single terete leaf (like a rat-tail) with very small pseudobulbs. When mature the leaves can reach just short of 3 feet.
The plants can carry between 14-20 flowers per inflorescence. The large, very showy, wide-spreading flowers are up to 3 in. (8 cm) across with sepals and petals that are golden yellow but rather heavily marked with dark cinnamon-brown spots and blotches that are irregularly shaped. The lip is intense yellow with reddish cinnamon-brown spots and blotches, and the callus at the base of the lip is pale yellow with reddish edges. The column is intense yellow with vertical reddish markings and a yellow anther with small reddishmarkings.
Plants prefer warm conditions with regular watering and are happy growing in light required for Cattleya (2000-3000 fc). Generally easy to look after the plants are mounted on cork as they don't like soggy or stale conditions around the roots. Rare.

Brazil and Paraguay

This little plant truly packs a punch! The small sized plants (3-4 inches) produce a foot long inflorescence that carries several flowers (to 2 inches). The large spreading flowers are chestnut brown with yellow striations and veining throughout the sepals and petals. The base of the lip is wonderfully contrasted with a bright crimson flush. Unlike the other members of the Crispa section of Oncidium alliance, this is the only species to carry the unique red colour lip. This is a warm growing plant that requires a dryer winter rest. Exquisite flowers!

Panama

Really interesting little plants. I sold out of these plants very quickly last season so I'm glad to be able to offer them again this year. The newest Oncidium species described in 2003, the attractive plants are small with ovoid compressed pseudobulbs. They produce long ,thin, branches spikes (two per pseudobulb) that have loads of yellow flowers that are heavily barred in brown-red. Do not cut the spikes until they die down as they will often reflower. My own plant was awarded a CCM with 264 flowers. Great potential! Plants are easy to grow in intermediate conditions with medium-bright light. Highly recommended.

Widespread- Eastward from Nepal, Bhutan, and northeast India across Burma and Thailand into Laos, Vietnam, and southern China.

A very lovely species formerly classified as Vanda, these plants are truly sun lovers. The plants are quite large with branched very long terete (pencil-like) stems and leaves. This species produces 3-6 showy blossoms at the upper portion of each inflorescence. Although this plant is the alba (white) variety there is variation in both size and colour (white to yellow) between flowers of different plants, with the long lasting flowers typically being between 2-4 inches.The plants prefer warm to intermediate temperatures and regular watering during the summer months. Light should be as bright as possible short of burning the foliage with full sun for at least part of the day being recommended. The size of the plant can be kept down by taking rooted top-cuttings and repotting them with the mother plant. Fragrant.

Kalimantan Borneo

Despite the name, this orchid is not related to the far more common Phalaenopsis species and nor will it breed with these plants. This species is a larger monopodial, epiphyte with terete pendant leaves to 13" or more (often referred to as rat-tailed leaves). The plants are definitely warm growers found in wet swampy forests with no dry season and require even conditions year round. Bright light as for Cattleya or slightly higher suit the plants well and they should never be allowed to dry out completely. The species has a large root system that requires well aerated and fast draining media. There is no data indicating that the plants prefer to be mounted or potted provided the above root conditions are met. Well grown plants may produce 7 or more flowers per 14" inflorescence. The medium sized flowers spread widely. The slightly twisted sepals and petals are white. The lemon yellow lip marked with purple bars and heavy purple spots. The lip has a distinct fork at the apex resembling a snake tongue (from which this species derives its name). The long-lasting flowers are produced in the spring and are wonderfully fragrant. Sensationally unusual species!!

An interesting new trend in intergeneric hybridizing. Compact growing plants are very similar in form to small Ascocenda with somewhat upright terete leaves. They are free flowering and produce several 1-2 inch flowers on upright inflorescences, often blooming a number of times per year. The outstanding gold to yellow flowers have darker shaded funnel-like side-lobes while the white lip protrudes upward and outwardly. Plants prefer intermediate to warmer conditions with medium to higher light. Easy- Recommended for those who enjoy plants in the Asco/Vanda family but don't have the room. Blooming sized plants (in spike) are currently being pot established in our greenhouse.

Assam, eastern Himalayas, Nepal, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, China, Laos, Vietnam, Java, Moluccas, the Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatra, New Guinea, New Caledonia, Samoa, Vanuatu, Taiwan, Ryukyu Islands and Japan

This widespread terrestrial species can be found throughout subtropical evergreen forests of Asia, and also at higher elevations of tropical Asia. This species is nicely suited for indoor/greenhouse cultivation. These plants are best grown in deeper pots with a well drained terrestrial mix that retains moisture and is free draining. Enjoying lower light (direct sun will burn these plants easily) they should be moist through the growing season. The plants are evergreen but do go dormant in the winter when less water is required. The leaves of this orchid are also quite notable; dark green shiny leaves carry contrasting spotting in yellow to white. Phaius flavus produces tall spikes of large, waxy, bright yellow flowers with lovely red to purple colouring on the lips. Plants normally bloom in early summer. This species is much smaller than many Phaius species.

Philippines

An absolutely stunning species. The plants have up to 25cm long green leaves with silvery-white markings. Producing many flowers the blossoms are 2.5-4 cm and open simultaneously. Pretty and delicate, they may be white, various shades of pink, or flushed with pale rose. Sepals and petals are marked with a few rose-colored dots at the base. The unusually large amethyst lip has whitesidelobes and may have 5 to 7 radiating, darker rose, peppermint stripes. Segments may be candy-striped. Plants have been considered difficult to cultivate as they require cooler temperatures (between 12 degrees at night and not above 25 through the day). Attention should be paid to maintaining these cool temperatures and providing a cooler, drier 2 month winter rest beginning at the end of December. Plants require good air movement and moderate light.

Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela

The tall thin upright stems stand approximately 6-8 inches tall with lovely 3-5 inch leaves. The plants produce a single 2.5 inch flower that rests on the base of the leaf. The wide spreading variable flowers have a large yellow dorsal sepal with red to pink veining. The petals are a dark red as is the lateral sepal. The upright lip flushed in pink to dark red. Very attractive plants in and out of bloom. Cool.

Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador

Known as the Sorrowful Pleurothallis, these miniature plants grow in lowland tropical rainforests. The moisture loving clump forming epiphytes bloom on erect to arching wiry spikes with several half-inch maroon coloured flowers with contrasting yellow lips. Makes lovely specimen plants. Intermediate to warm.

Colombia

This particular plant is one of the largest of the genus. Plants have tall stems to 3 feet with 8-10 inch leaves of heavy substance. Lovely pastel flowers are produced from leaf axils in groups or singly from both old and new leaves. The 2 inch flowers carry cream to yellow dorsal sepals with red to pink veining. The lateral sepal ranges from pastel pink to light red. The petals are yellow striated with pink and covered with small hairs. The lip is a darker pink and is also hairy. Very showy plants. Intermediate.

Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela

Miniature epiphytes produce successive erect flowers (3/4 inch) held mid-leaf. The translucent cream-green coloured sepals of heavy substance are dotted in purple. The petals are also overlaid in purple shades. The complicated movable lip has three teeth at its apex and is a darker colour and has fascinating fringes on the underside. Intermediate.

Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines

Uncommon in collections, these small Phalaenopsis-like plants produce their flowers from spring to autumn on persistent spikes. The serene pale-yellow to white flowers open widely in aspect. The cupped sidelobes of the lip are darkly veined with red/brown and the anther is suffused in yellow. Fragrant. Plants grow well in warm conditions in moderate light.

Vietnam

A rare species; these small plants, to 10 inches, are one of the two yellow Renenatheras. Seven to ten flowers are produced per inflorescence. The spreading, somewhat star-shaped, non-fragrant blossoms are bright lemon-yellow with 1-3 purple-violet spots or blotches on the sepals and petals and on the side lobes of the lip.
Averanov (1997) reported the following: "This showy new species seems tobe most closely related to the only other yellow-flowered Renanthera, therare Ren. pulchella Rolfe, known from a single cultivated plantoriginating in Myanmar (Burma). Renanthera citrina differs from Ren.pulchella by its longer and narrower leaves, larger flowers with differentmarkings and in the form and structure of the lip."

Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines

Robust growing plants produce 20-30 per inflorescence, but they open in succession, so only a few are open at any one time. The flowers vary in color, depending on their region of origin. Plants in Malaya have flowers that are light crimson with deeper colored spots, particularly on the lateral sepals. In Sumatra, they are red but often are yellow with red spots. In Java, they are orange-red, while in Borneo they are yellowish with small, deep red spots, particularly on the lateral sepals, and in the Philippines- which is this form offered here for sale, the flowers are dull orange with orange spots. The lip on most color forms has side lobes that are orange-yellow and white with red spots, a reddish brown midlobe, and a yellow spur with 1 to several crimson blotches. The column is yellow with deep crimson spots, mostly at the base. The flower,which open widely, are about 3 cm. Plants require warm even year round conditions and high light. Stick mounted plants (can be sunk into a pot if necessary). Fragrant.

Philippines

Moderately sized plants, similar to Vanda. Plants produce inflorescences of up to 50 star-shaped blossoms which are bright orange and fairly densely spotted with irregularly shaped blood-red spots. Flowers are up to 1.6 in. across with wide-spreading sepals and petals which have blades that are narrow at the base but spread to be lanceolate-shaped and widest below the middle. Plants require year round warm growing conditions in high light. Stick mounted plants (can be sunk into a pot if necessary). Fragrant.

Philippines

Large sized plants similar to Vanda produce up to 100 flowers per inflorescence. The brilliant red to red-orange blossoms are 4-5 cm wide The lateral sepals are velvety, brilliant red marked with large red blotches. The dorsal sepal and petals are dark reddish orange with crimson blotches, and the lip is deep orange with small yellow bars and a white center. Plants require warm even year round conditions and high light. Potted.

Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela

Small plants (5-9 inches) carry a single rather stiff leaf. Flowers are produced singly from the leaf axil or even behind the leaf. Plants may also carry more than one inflorescence per leaf. The long-lived flowers are yellow-orange with brown longitudinal stripes. The small petals are veined and suffused with red/purple stripes. The yellow lip is striped with three prominent longitudinal stripes marked in red-brown on each side. Cool to intermediate.

Ecuador

Miniature to small sized plants. Flowers are approximately 1 inch in size. The sepals are translucent white/cream, with heavy purple spotting. Flowers have quite long dorsal sepals. Petals are yellow at the base and move to a translucent white. Attractive in form the petals are often held upright. The lip is yellow and heavily spotted in rose moving to yellow with small hairs at the apex. Cool to intermediate.

Mexico, Central America, Northern Colombia

Miniature to small sized plants. Successively blooming flowers are approximately 1 inch in size. The sepals are translucent white, yellow, or rose with more or less purple spotting. Petals are translucent white and often have a purple spot just above the base. The lip is white, yellow, or rose with a reddish purple suffusion or reddish purple spots. The column is greenish white. Cool to intermediate.

Burma, Thailand, Malaya, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Borneo, Indonesia

Very desirable, eye-catching plants are successfully line bred to produce highly attractive orange/peach coloured flowers. This species can produce up to 50 flowers per inflorescence, but a medium-sized plant may produce 3-4 inflorescences, and large, well-grown plants may produce even more. The waxy blossoms are highly fragrant and last about 2 weeks. This species enjoys quite bright light and warm growing conditions. Also beneficial is a reduction in water from December to February. Fragrant. Fragrant.

Philippines

Found only in the Philippines, this member of the Vanda alliance is a valid species, often confused and cited as a synonym of Rynchostylis retusa. Stunning 'fox-tail' inflorescences produce 50-100 flowers. A well-established plant frequently produces several inflorescences at the same time. The blossoms all open at the same time. Each perfect small flowers is about 1-2 cm across. The long-lasting crystalline white flowers have white sepals and petals with a light pink or amethyst-purple spotting usually with violet shading in the throat. Flowers have an extremely spicy fragrance. This species is quite rare in cultivation.

China, Burma, Thailand, Laos, India

Recently renamed, this is a fascinating plant. The species produces a many flowered umbel similiar to Cirrhopetalum. The 1 inch bright orange, tubular shaped flowers are heavily spotted and lined in a ruddy red (This species also has a movable lip as many bulbos do.) The fragrance is quite foul smelling. Well suited to pot culture, this species enjoys bright light, warm conditions, and good drainage. Despite the fragrance, the plants are 'other-wordly' beautiful

Philippines

A charming small (about 6 inch) monopodial epiphyte found only in the Philippines. Plants produce small, purple or purple and yellow, bell-shaped blossoms. The inflorescence reminds one of the grape hyacinth. Plants require higher light as for Vanda with a moist growing season. A slightly dryer winter rest is beneficial. Rarely offered.

Costa Rica, Panama, NW Colombia

Interesting clump-forming epiphyte (loosely related to Laelia) that grows to 18 inches. Plants grow on top of itself with up to 4 levels secondary stems that surmount the primary stem, with 1-4 new growths emerging from the apex of older stems in the chain. A single nodding blossom is produced on each inflorescence, but several inflorescences may be present at the same time. The flowers are white-yellow to green and often have purple streaks or veins. The column is suffused with purple or pink. Makes very interesting and unusual specimen plants. Plants enjoy warm conditions and medium light. Different.

Australia

Although they do not seem to be in 'fashion' at the moment, this miniature Sacrochilus is a gem. Barely ever reaching over 6" in size (these plants are blooming size at about 2") they produce multiple flower spikes. Between 3-14 flowers are produced per inflorescence with each blossom being up to 2" across. The flowers vary in color, ranging from pure glistening white with yellow markings on the lip through varying shades of white to cream with varying degrees of red to purple markings on the lip. This species is noted for the strong vanilla fragrance of its flowers. Moderate light with intermediate to warm temperatures suit these plants well.

Eastern India, Burma, and Thailand

These miniature plants (under 1") grow easily on small slabs. Due to the plants living in areas with limited water (Xerophytic) the little terete leaves have the appearance of small cactus. (An interesting sidenote- the plants coming from the Indian area are found growing on the roots of Renanthera imashootiana.) Plants produce 10-12 flowers per inflorescence. The fleshy flowers are deep rose-purple. The sepals and petals are deep rose-purple at the apex with greenish white at the base. Plants enjoy warm conditions with medium light. Fragrant.

Ecuador and Peru

When mature these plants have the potential to reach over a meter in length though they will bloom well before this size. Plant have attractive terete (pencil-like) pendant leaves that resemble the long tails of a rat. Plants produce showy 2 inch flowers. The sepals and petals are primarily cream-yellow with varying amounts of red striations. The petals are strongly veined in reds. The large white lip is white striated with red-purple and is heavy marked and veined from the throat outward. Plants are always an eye catcher with their unusual form and showy flowers. This species prefer warm conditions in medium lower light. (It is worth noting that these plants can take variable light levels and many orchidists, myself included, will grow them in much higher light.) Plants must be mounted or grown in baskets due to the pendant habit of both the leaves and the flowers spikes.

A rather large, monopodial epiphyte, plants are commonly 12-16 in long although they can grow to 3 feet. Formerly classified under Aerides this orchid has a pendent growth habit and produces an extensive root system. The plants can produce 20 or more flowers per inflorescence. The blossoms are showy; usually white to light magenta with sepals and petals tinted with red-purple. The lip and tip of the column usually are more deeply colored than the sepals and petals, but some clones may have flowers that are entirely red-purple. Flowers are about almost 2cm across with spreading toreflexed sepals and petals. Plants prefer high light and warm conditions. Mature plants to 24 inches

Western Madagascar.

Closely related to Angraecum these plants reach about 16 inches when mature. The plants can be found growing as epiphytes, lithophytes and occasionally as terrestrials. Flowers are carried in a loose cluster, of about 12-17 blossoms per inflorescence, and plants have the capacity to produce more than one spike at a time if well grown. The 3 inch white flowers turn yellowish with age. The distinctive sepals and petals are recurved, especially at their tips. Plants are intermediate growing and require higher light to flower well. This species also benefits from a dryer winter rest.

Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador

Normally Sobralia are very large terrestrial plants that are not really suitable for greenhouse or indoor culture due to their sheer size. All species of Sobralia produce short lived flowers, however, they continuously produce blossom after blossom in flushes several times per year.
Sobralia atropubescens or the "Black-Haired Sobralia" is a wonderful compact grower to 28 inches. The broad leaves are covered with dark hairs as is the red coloured cane-like stems. The single 3 inch flower is held in an erect position. The sepals and petals are a beautiful bronze colour with a rose-purple lip with white fringes alone the edges and a yellow throat. Plants prefer intermediate conditions and brighter light. These stunning plants are excellent candidates for windowsill growing. This species is rarely offered on the market.

Brazil

Eight-inch plant with vivid orange flowers bloom on 10 inch stems that arch away from plant. Interesting botanical.

Brazil

A small to just medium sized, warm to cool growing epiphyte. A 6" spike gives rise to lovely shaped yellow flowers with a defined lip marked in red. Needs higher humidity.

Brazil

A small to just medium sized, warm to cool growing epiphyte. A 6" spike gives rise to lovely shaped yellow flowers with a defined lip marked in red.

Bangladesh, Myanamar, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Borneo, Java, Sumatra, Philippines

This is a species I've been looking to add to my collection for quite some time. The plants are related to Cymbidium and their culture is also quite similar. A monotypic species, these medium-small plants have deeply grooved egg-shaped pseudobulbs topped with a single somewhat leathery light green leaf. The inflorescences arise from the base of the pseudobulbs and lengthen as the flowers are produced successively over 2-3 months. The small (some say insect-like) flowers are extremely intricate in their markings. The gracefully shaped blossoms have a white/yellow crystalline background elaborately spotted and often suffused in pink to purple. The white broad lip is also spotted and the column is marked with two purple pollinia. The flowers are fragrant. As to the culture, the plants require warm temperatures with good light, watering, and fertilizer during the growing period. In August, watering should be reduced to eventually give the plants a one month hard dry winter rest where the leaves may fall. Flowering takes place after the dormant season.

Malaysia, Cambodia, Borneo, Java, Sumatra to Vietnam, Philippines

While not widely sold or found in many collections here in the West, Thrixspermum species are very commonly found in their habitat throughout South East Asia. The small to rarely medium size monopodial plants are, for the most part, twig epiphytes that are related to Vanda. Those who collect mini species really ought to take a closer look at some of these little gems as they become better known in Western collections. The plants are not difficult to grow and most have a very long flowering season. The flowers, from species to species, are widely varied in form from the strange to the truly beautiful.

Tx. accuminatissimum is a miniature size plant. The plant produces a persistent inflorescence that takes on a zigzag appearance as the flowers are born singly or in pairs and bloom for long periods over the summer months. These should not be removed until they die off naturally as they will reflowed from these old as well as new inflorescences The curious upside-down flowers of this species look like small insects. The narrow sepals are a tan/yellow colour and are slightly reflexed, while the petals are narrow and lighter in colour. The cupped lip is spotted in yellow/brown and narrows to a long extremely pointed appendage. These warm growing plants require fairly shady conditions and would grow well with Phals.

Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Taiwan, Java, Sumatra, Philippines

This small species is a rather attractive plant with lighter green leaves resembles a mini-Vanda. The plants have thin wiry persistent inflorescences and may carry quite a number at any given time. The bright, charming, little flowers are born singly or in pairs. The lip is white with stunning red veining in the throat. Plants bloom continuously from Spring to Fall from a zigzag rachis at the end of the inflorescence. Warm growing plants that require moderate light.

Malaysia

These plants are endemic only to Malaysia. Vigourous growers, these small plants produce many persistent flower spikes and it is common to find well grown plants with over 10 spikes that arrange themselves both vertically as well as horizontally from the plant. The flowers which are borne singly or in pairs closely resemble those of Gastrochilus in form. Pure crystalline, cupped, white flowers have some buff spotting on the lip and basal portions of the sepals. Warm growing plants that require moderate light.

(Tolu Red Belt x Tolu Tiny Tim)

A classic equitant Oncidium hybrid. Miniature plants produce graceful sprays of cheery white flowers that are heavily spotted in red. Great "dancing ladies"!

Thailand, Laos and Vietnam

Trias are very closely related to Bulbophyllum. Typically the flowers of Trias tend to have a triangular form and are held close to the psuedobulbs. Trias disciflora has some of the most colourful flowers of the genus. The flowers are tan to yellow with heavy red/maroon spotting on the sepals and petals. The moveable lip is very heavily spotted and almost appears solid maroon. The throat is red and contrasts with the bright yellow anther cap. Trias require warm, moist temperatures in lower light. I've grown a number of Trias species over the years and have found most will sulk or grow poorly if the plants do not have good air movement and an open media at the root, otherwise I've found them to be much more reliable in their blooming than Bulbos.

Borneo and Sumatra

Trichoglottis are related to Vanda/Aerides. They are typically large vine-type plants with roots being produced all along the stem. Trichoglottis smithii is a smaller member of this family which makes the culture much easier. The plants produce many inflorescences along the stem of one to two brightly coloured flowers. The fragrant, fleshy flowers are have a crystalline white background barred in orange. The stunning, hairy lip contrasts beautifully with pink/purple veining. When grown well this can become a stunning orchid. Plants prefer warm conditions in bright light. Water and fertilize freely but allow to dry between waterings.

Philippines

Fairly well known in Asia, these lovely small sized plant resembling a Vanda with upright stiff leaves to 6 cm. These epiphytic gems produce about 20 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers, which open in succession, are up to 1.5 cm have white sepals and petals, and have a white lip that is marked with yellow blotches and the base of the petals is circled with reddish brown markings. Plants are exquisite in bloom and are strongly fragrant. Bright light, warm temperatures and a dryer winter rest suit the plants well.

Philippines

Plants are quite similar to the above species, however, are notably more vine-like in their growth habit, producing side growths as well. About 20 flowers are produced per inflorescence. The flowers are up to 1.5 cm across, have pale green sepals and petals, and have a white lip that is marked with pale purple blotches and has lateral lobes that are edged with reddish brown. Plants can produce several inflorescences. The flowers of this species are rather similar to Turbolabium quisumbingii. Bright light and a slightly dryer winter rest suit the plant.

Myanmar and Thailand

A much smaller member of the Vanda family this plant reaches not much more than 8 inches. The erect flower spikes emerge from the stem below the lowest leaves with the flowers being produced in a rather loose raceme on the upper half of the spike. The 6-10 blossoms have yellow sepals and petals and a lavender or pink to purple lip and spur. While the flowers on this species may not compare in size to the larger plants, they are certainly stunning in their own right. The plants require fairly strong light. Water freely during warm summer months and through the winter keep the plants slightly cooler and dryer. Fragrant

(Vanda teres X Vanda hookerana)

Vanda Miss Joaquim is Singapore's national flower. This orchid was first discovered in 1893, in the garden of Miss Agnes Joaquim, the daughter of an Armenian merchant in Singapore. Plants are members of the Vanda group known as Papillionanthe. They are a branching terete species of Vanda producing roots up the length of the tall stems. Easy in overall culture, the plants require warmth in full-sun conditions to bloom properly (they will not bloom if this high light condition is not met). The fragrant, long-lasting, flowers are about 2 inches across. The sepals and often twisted petals are light rose in colour. The wide spreading lip is suffused in darker pink tones often with yellow hues in the throat. A really beautiful primary hybrid!

Peru, Bolivia and Brazil

A curious Zygopetalum species, this is a small growing plant with quite narrow light green leaves. The species is noted for its 1 inch grape-like clustered pseudobulbs. The plants produce green-yellow flowers heavily marked and suffused in red-brown. The wide spreading white lip is notably shaded and striated in lavender. The plants enjoy medium-low light on the cooler side of intermediate. These plants do prefers a slightly wetter culture than for other Zygo. species. Great plants for those that like Zygos but don't have the room. Fragrant.