Vivi's Orchid Corner

July 2003 - Volume 8, Issue 7

"Renantheras"

Dear Orchid Friends:

Renantheras (Ren-ANN-ther-a) are relatives of Vandas. These orchids hail from Southeast Asia, Philippines and surrounding areas. Renantheras are known for their bright flowers in hues of red, orange-red, yellow-red, and all with contrasting markings.

Renantheras are ideally suited for tropical and subtropical climates and require exceptionally bright light. These orchids are not very cold tolerant…they love warm climates. This genus contains about a dozen different species. Some species have pseudobulbs (Ren. imschootiana), while others do not and are shaped like Vandas.

High light, frequent watering and fertilizing are necessities for this orchid. Hang in baskets for optimal growing conditions. Consider placing chunks of bark in the basket. Renantheras do well in pots using chunks of bark or lava rock as medium. Most prefer hanging freely as the other vandaceous orchids. They take a little more light than your average Vanda. Water well, frequently and thoroughly.

Flowers are brilliantly colored and produce many flowers on inflorescences. They are eye catching! Different species flower during the various seasons, but predominantly bloom spring through summer. Flowers are not fragrant. Generally dorsal sepals and petals are slightly elliptical in shape and separate, slender. Lower sepals are slightly more oblong in shape, although certain species have different formations.

You may have seen Renantheras used as cut flowers in arrangements or in those wonderful Thai restaurants as table center pieces. Flowers are relatively long lasting and their unique shape is one of their distinctive characteristics. Grow them with your vandaceous collection. Looking for an orchid with intense color and markings? Add Renantheras to your collection for just the right splash of color. They truly radiate the essence of the summer. South Florida hobbyists are fortunate to have the right climate to grow these beauties.

Vivi