Grammatophyllum speciosum
Giant Orchid, Tiger Orchid, Sugar Cane OrchidFamily: Orchidaceae
Origin: New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines
Grammatophyllum speciosum is a small, bushy shrub that can reach between two to five feet in height. It is native to New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The plant prefers full sun exposure and regular water for optimal growth. It is capable of producing fragrant yellow and orange flowers that are beautiful to look at. The plant is sometimes called Sugar Cane Orchid as it resembles a sugar cane plant. The flowers are yellow colored with maroon or dark red spots. Grammatophyllum Speciosum not only produces the largest orchid flower in the world, but is also the heaviest orchid plant in the world.
Grammatophyllum speciosum is hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown in pots in colder regions with special care. The soil should be kept evenly moist and well-draining, but not waterlogged or saturated. You should also keep it in partly to full sun and make sure to mist the orchid leaves with water every few days or so. To keep the roots healthy, it's important to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as too much can damage the plant.
In humid climates, Grammatophyllum speciosum may be grown outdoors in the landscape. In more arid regions and climates, it is best grown potted, allowing it to be moved indoors during colder winter months. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. When it's time to repot, use a well-draining potting medium such as chopped fir bark and provide as much air circulation as possible. Add perlite to the potting soil for better drainage and water less frequently in the winter months. The plant also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Grammatophyllum speciosum is a spectacular and relatively easy to care for orchid. With the right care and attention, your plant will give you years of blooms and breathtaking beauty.
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