About
Known as the blue orchid, *Vanda coerulea* is prized by collectors for its distinctive bluish-purple flowers, which are noted for being exceptionally long-lasting compared to many other orchids. The plant typically produces numerous spikes, sometimes bearing up to 20 to 30 blooms.
Field notes
Morphology
The flowers are described as having a bluish-purple color. The plant bears up to 20 to 30 spikes.
Distribution & habitat
Northeast India, extending to China's southern Yunnan region. It is noted for growing on oak trees.
History & etymology
The plant was formally described by John Lindley in 1847, based on a specimen obtained from the Khasi Hills and named by William Griffith.
Conservation
Due to its ornamental nature and over-collection, it was placed in CITES Appendix I in the 1970s.
Habitat
- Altitude
- Not recorded
- Altitude class
- —
- Native to
- India, China
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate