Rhynchostylis Gigantea – Spots

Rhynchostylis Gigantea (commonly known as the foxtail orchid) is a highly sought-after, fragrant epiphyte from Southeast Asia. The spotted variants — such as ‘Big Spot’ or ‘Pink Spots’ feature striking white or pink petals adorned with vibrant dark pink, red, or purple blotches, and bloom in dense, cascading clusters during the winter.

Key Care Requirements

• Light: Bright, indirect light (about 2000 - 2500 foot-candles) is ideal. They tolerate lower light better than other Vanda-type orchids.
• Temperature: Warm-growing, ideally kept between 18°C - 27°C (65°F and 80°F).
• Water & Humidity: Maintain 60% - 70% humidity. Water frequently (even daily in warm weather), but ensure the roots dry out slightly between waterings.
• Potting: Best grown in open slatted wooden baskets or plastic pots with large chunks of charcoal or bark to allow proper air circulation around the brittle root system.
• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced orchid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

Spotted Varieties

• ‘Big Spot’ (Ruxaporn Group): Features a pure white background with bold, dark purplish-red blotches that show through on both sides of the petals.
• ‘Pink Spots’: Smaller, dense clusters with delicate pink to purplish specks on a symmetrical background