Vanda cristata

Description

Vanda cristata is a small- to medium-sized species native to Asia.  It is notable for its amazing lip that makes it a favorite for hybridizing (not to mention its precocious blooming habit and fragrant flowers).  Although plants can reach a good size, they bloom when they’re quite small, and the flowers are long-lasting (and did I mention fragrant?).  If you have limited space, this guy will fit in nicely for a long time.

We are growing V. cristata in small pots with little to no medium.  Vandas can be grown two different ways:  like a standard Vanda, i.e., in a basket with a very chunky bark mix OR in clay pots with a similar mix.  Growing the plant in a clay pot with a chunky bark mix minimizes watering.  I have had excellent success with standard Vandas in pots here in Michigan.  The roots grow vigorously and are a great indicator of general plant happiness.  Grow in moderate light and intermediate to warm temperatures.  Water well then allow to dry out which will mean daily watering unless you grow this in a pot.  If you find that the roots are drying out, add more chunky mix to the pot or basket to maintain more humidity around the roots.