Vivi's Orchid Corner

Dear Orchid Friends:

Growth Habits: Arachnis orchids GROW! The plant looks like a cross between a dendrobium and a Vanda and grow as a thick vine.. Some varieties will grow well over 15 feet or more. It is a good climber so grow them in pots with stakes or poles to support the plant. As the orchid plant grows in length it will twist and curve as it reaches for sunlight.

Arachnis are monopodial which means the plant has one main stem and the plant grows upward (i.e., vandas, dendrobiums). Leaves are thick, flat and waxy and form on either side of the thick terete like cane. Epiphytic roots reach outward from the plant. If an arachnis is placed next to a tall pole, wall, etc., it will grow to that height. But watch out...it will compete with any pole to see if it can grow taller than its stake. (And it usually does!)

Temperature & Watering: Arachnis like warm temperatures and humidity. They enjoy long periods of hot, moist weather and short periods of cold weather. Arachnis are durable plants and are ideal for tropical and subtropical climates. Water thoroughly and spray the roots and plant. You can decrease watering during cooler weather.

Fertilizer: They are heavy feeders so fertilize often. Fertilize as you would vandas. A weekly feeding of a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) with a bloom fertilizer every third feeding during the growing period is a good regime according to several experts. I found a little less fertilizer was better for my plant.

Flowers: These orchids usually flower in the summer months. Flowers are relatively large (3 1/2" x 3 1/2") and produce 10-12 flowers on a stalk. Flowers are thick and waxy with distinct and separate petals. Colors are generally yellow or yellow green with brown or purple brown bars or markings on the petals. Petals are thin and elongated with the lateral and lower petals having tips that curve slightly downward. The lip is hinged to the column.

It is certainly an impressive spray!

I received my first arachnis several years ago. Perhaps I doted on it too much because it never flowered. Ironically, a little neglect this past year has produced wonderful results! It gets plenty of water and is located in full sun, but it is fertilized infrequently. I let it grow wild and meander freely about and it is now a happy orchid. It has rewarded me with beautiful inflorescences this summer.

Warm, moist conditions and full sun exposure are necessary to cultivate Arachnis. They are truly an interesting variety. Let them curve and loop throughout your garden . They will add a certain tropical touch to your oasis. If you are fortunate to come across an Arachnis, try your luck. You may be surprised!

Until next time,

Vivi