Plant guide

Blue vanda.

Vanda coerulea

Pronounced VAN-duh see-roo-LEE-uh

Also known as Blue Orchid, Blue vanda

The blue vanda is a stunning orchid known for its striking, sky blue flowers. It grows as an epiphyte, meaning it naturally clings to trees in its native habitat. You will love how its unique, airy root system adds a tropical feel to your home.

At a glance

Care level: Difficult
Plant type: Epiphytic orchid
Light: Bright filtered light
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 1 to 2 days
Mature size: 3 feet
Growth rate: Slow

Care

Keep this orchid in a basket with minimal media to allow its roots to breathe. Watch for shriveled leaves which signal dehydration, or yellowing which often points to root rot from too much moisture. High humidity is essential for keeping this plant happy.

Watering: Mist or soak the roots daily during warmer months to maintain moisture.
Feeding: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning: Trim off dead or dried flower spikes once the blooms have faded.
Repotting: Only repot when the basket begins to degrade or the roots become unmanageable.
Soil: Orchid bark or bare root
Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Stunning sky blue petals
Checkered pattern on flowers
Long, strap like leaves
Exposed, thick aerial roots

Science

Family: Orchidaceae
Genus: Vanda
Order: Asparagales
Class: Liliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your blue vanda looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.