Taxon

Vanda coerulea

 
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Vanda coerulea - The Blue Vanda
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Common name: The Blue Vanda
Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)
Distribution: Arunachal Pradesh to China (S Yunnan) and Indo-China
Habitat: On exposed, dwarf oak trees in forests with dry season; 2625-5600ft (800-1700m)
Life form: Epiphytic
Bloom characteristics: Erect or suberect inflorescence is up to 2 feet (.6 meters) long with few to several long-lasting white flowers covered in a blue crosshatch. Flowers are 4" (10 cm) across.
Fragrance: Fragrant
Plant size: 20-75" x 18-30" (51-191 x 46-76 cm), excluding inflorescence
Medicinal/pharmaceutical: In India, the flowers have been used to treat chest conditions, and juice from the leaves to treat diarrhea and dysentary, and skin conditions externally.
Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): August to December; peaks in November
Description: This medium to large sized orchid was the cause of much excitement when it was first brought to Europe in 1847, due to its large, blue flowers. Many expeditions were sent to gather the orchid, imperiling it. The medical properties of this orchid are currently being researched.
Links: Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia • Kew World Checklist of Selected Plant Families

Locations

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