Rhynchostylis Gigantea Var. Alba

Among the most coveted of the “foxtail orchids,” Rhynchostylis gigantea var. alba is a striking vandaceous species native to Southeast Asia—specifically Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and the Philippines. While the standard form bears vibrant pink or purple blossoms, the alba variety produces pristine, snow-white flowers with a subtle, pale green or ivory column. This rare color form is highly sought after by collectors for its elegance, fragrance, and the dramatic contrast it creates against the plant’s leathery, strap-like leaves.

Floral Display & Fragrance

• Inflorescence: Pendant to semi-erect, densely packed cylindrical spikes resembling a foxtail — hence the common name.
• Flower count: 50 to well over 100 individual flowers per mature spike.
• Flower size: Approximately 1.5–2 cm (0.6–0.8 inches) across, though the sheer density creates a showy, full look.
• Color: Pure white, occasionally with a tiny chartreuse or ivory flush in the center.
• Fragrance: Strongly fragrant — sweet, citrusy, and spicy, often compared to orange blossoms or licorice. Scent intensifies during the day.
• Bloom season: Winter to early spring (December through March in the Northern Hemisphere), with flowers lasting several weeks.

Plant Characteristics

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light

• Bright, filtered light— approximately 25,000 – 35,000 lux.
• No direct midday sun, which scorches leaves.
• Morning or late afternoon sun is acceptable.
• Insufficient light results in fewer flowers and elongated, weak growth.

Temperature

• Warm-growing:
  • Day: 24–30°C (75–86°F)
  • Night: 18–22°C (64–72°F)
• Critical: Do not allow temperatures to drop below 15°C (60°F). This species is not cold-tolerant and suffers damage or death from prolonged cool exposure.

Humidity & Airflow

• High humidity: 60–80%is ideal.
• Strong air circulation is essential to prevent fungal issues and mimic the plant’s natural exposed canopy environment.

Cultivation & Care Guide

Mounting & Potting (no soil — ever)

Watering

• Active growth (spring–summer): Water generously every 1–2 days, or daily for bare-root or mounted plants.
• Cooler months (autumn–winter): Reduce frequency, allowing roots to dry more thoroughly. Water only when the medium is dry and temperatures remain warm enough.
• Always use low-mineral water (rainwater, RO or distilled).

Fertilizer

• During active growth: Apply diluted vanda fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar) at ¼ to ½ strength weekly.
• Alternate with a high-phosphorus formula (10-30-20) in late summer to boost flowering.
• Reduce feeding in winter if light and temperatures drop.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove dead or yellowing lower leaves for aesthetics, but leave old leaf bases intact (they help anchor the plant).
• Do not cut healthy roots — vandaceous orchids are slow to recover.
• After blooming, trim only the spent spike if it browns; green spikes may rebloom.

Key Challenges & Solutions

What Customers Receive

• One established Rhynchostylis gigantea alba seedling, near-blooming size, or mature specimen (size indicated at purchase).
• Plant may be bare-root, mounted, or in a net pot depending on listing.
• Full care instructions included.

Why Add the White Fox Tail Orchid to Your Collection?

• Rare alba form– whiter and often more fragrant than the standard pink type.
• Winter blooms– brings color and sweet perfume when many orchids are resting.
• Low-maintenance for a vanda– more forgiving of indoor conditions than true Vanda
• Impressive specimen plant– a mature plant in bloom draws immediate attention.
• Excellent for hanging displays– pendant spikes hang beautifully above eye level.

Rhynchostylis gigantea var. alba, white foxtail orchid, fragrant vandaceous orchid, alba form, winter-blooming orchid, bare-root orchid, mounted orchid, collector’s orchid, Southeast Asian species.