Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’: A Fragrant Beauty Among Orchids
Introduction: Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’, a captivating orchid variety, enchants its stunning appearance and alluring fragrance and is part of the Orchidaceae family of plants. This article explores the background, characteristics, and cultivation tips for this remarkable orchid. This stunning hybrid is a cross between Vanda ‘Karulea’ and Vanda ‘Gordon Dillon’, which was developed by S. Oun-Anong and registered by P. Pacharapong in 1999. The name “Vanda” is from the Sanskrit वन्दाका.
Characteristics of Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’:
Leaves: Vanda Pachara Delight features long and narrow leaves that exhibit a deep green color. These foliage elements contribute to the overall elegance of the plant.
Flowers: The flowers of Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ are truly enchanting. They bloom on tall spikes, reaching a remarkable diameter of up to 5 inches. The petals display a captivating dark blue-purple hue, adorned with light tessellation for added charm. One of the most captivating features of the flower is the lip, which showcases a deep black color, embellished with a white callus. Apart from their visual appeal, the flowers also emit a sweet and spicy fragrance, further enhancing their allure.
Cultivation of Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’:
Sunlight Requirements: To thrive, Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, it’s crucial to prevent excessive exposure, as it may result in leaf scorching. Find a location that provides the ideal balance of light intensity.
Watering: Adequate watering is essential for the optimal growth of Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’. During the warmer months, this orchid variety requires frequent watering to keep its roots consistently moist. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Adjust the watering frequency based on seasonal variations and temperature changes, reducing the frequency during cooler periods when the plant is less actively growing.
Soil Requirements: Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it naturally grows on trees or other surfaces. It does not require soil for cultivation. Instead, it thrives when mounted on slabs of tree fern or cork bark, allowing air circulation around the roots.
Pest and Disease Management: While Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ is generally resilient, it is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Common pests include mealybugs, scale insects, and mites. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, and promptly address any issues using appropriate pest control methods. Additionally, be mindful of the potential for root rot, ensuring proper drainage and avoiding waterlogging.
Propagation:
Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ can be propagated through two primary methods: division and air layering. Division involves separating the plant into two or more sections, each with a sufficient number of roots. Air layering is a more challenging technique suitable for larger plants that cannot be easily divided. Both methods have their own requirements and success rates, so choose the one that suits your expertise and specific circumstances.
Vanda ‘Pachara Delight’ is a captivating orchid that combines stunning visual appeal with a sweet and spicy fragrance. With its remarkable flowers and elegant foliage, it adds a touch of beauty to any collection or garden. By providing the right amount of light, water, and care, you can enjoy the enchantment of this exquisite orchid variety for years to come.
