The rare Vanda spathulata (L.) Spreng. 1826, often misspelled as Vanda spatulata, was the first Vanda orchid species described ever.

1703 the plant was categorised in the Hortus Indicus Malabaricus as Ponnampou maravara, then later on, in 1753 Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778) named it Epidendrum spathulatum. In 1826 the German botanist Curt Polycarp Joachim Sprengel (1766–1833) categorised this orchid species as Vanda spathulata (L.) Spreng. 1826, which seems to be the accepted name, but there is no end to the taxonomical confusion. In 1992 Dr. Eric Christenson named the orchid species Taprobanea spathulata (L.) Christenson 1992, but there is still more confusion. The tropical orchid, native to India and Sri Lanka, is often described as terrestrially growing, we found the plant as an epiphyt. The fragrant, yellow flowers reach a size of about 3-4 cm in diameter. Flowering period: late Autumn - Spring.

Vanda spathulata orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical orchid requires intermediate – warm temperatures and a shady location. The large sized orchid species requires warm - hot temperatures and a location in partial shade - full sun.

Flower Photography © Orchid Flowers.com
Image: Vanda spathulata (L.) Spreng. 1826
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Vanda species orchids at Orchids Flowers.com: