Papilionanthe teres
TAXONOMY
FamilyOrchidaceae
GenusPapilionanthe
Zone11
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Papilionanthe teres, commonly known as the Terete Vanda, is an epiphytic orchid native to wet tropical climates. It is known for its long, cylindrical leaves and beautiful, butterfly-like flowers. This plant thrives in humid environments and is often found growing on trees in its native habitat.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Dancing Lady Orchid
Orchids
Dendrobium teres
Papilionanthe teres f. candida
Vanda teres
Vanda teres var. candida
Vanda teres var. canida
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (12 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Papilionanthe teres requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. It prefers warm temperatures and should be kept in a location that mimics its natural tropical environment. Regular watering is essential to keep the roots moist, but ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.Soil
As an epiphytic orchid, Papilionanthe teres does not require traditional soil. Instead, it prefers a well-draining orchid mix that can include bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. The medium should retain some moisture but allow for good airflow around the roots.Fertilizer
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 20-20-20. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, and reduce frequency during the dormant period. Ensure to dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid root burn.Repotting
Repot Papilionanthe teres every 2-3 years or when the growing medium starts to break down. Choose a slightly larger pot and fresh orchid mix. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, trim any dead roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh medium.Propagation
Propagation of Papilionanthe teres is typically done through stem cuttings. Take a healthy cutting with at least a few nodes, and place it in a well-draining orchid mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until new roots develop.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to remove dead or damaged leaves and to encourage new growth. Use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts. Prune after the flowering period to maintain the plant's shape and health.Toxicity
Papilionanthe teres is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal infections. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and treat promptly if found. This orchid can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided the environmental conditions are met.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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