Orchid of the day: Vanda Cherry Blossom 'Carmela' (AM-CCM/AOS)

Ascofinetia Cherry Blossom 'Carmela' (AM-CCM/AOS)

This hybrid, formerly known as Ascofinetia Cherry Blossom, had 330 flowers on eleven flower stems when it was awarded one year ago May 4th, 2019.  This year, there are thirteen flower stems so instead of counting each single flower, we estimated the flower count to be close to 400 flowers.

A) Individual flower.

When Arne bought this plant in 2012, it was a small blooming seedling. He immediately transferred it to a basket made of cedar and it has been growing happily in it ever since.  The basket is clearly disintegrating now and the only way to deal with that is to transfer the whole assembly, old wood and all, to a new basket. This year, our orchid will find a new home in a basket made of mahogany. It will be happening soon after all the flowers are gone. Mahogany should last much longer.

B) In March, most of the flowers were still at the budding stage.

C) I am always amazed with their roots.

D) This is what the flowers look like when they are buds. What a contrast from the opened flowers.

E) Beautiful purple flowers. Typical Vanda-look except for the spur, which is from Neofinetia.

F) Out in the sun in mid April.

G) All in full bloom by late April.

H) 'Aerial view' with buds

I) 'Aerial view', several days later, in full bloom.

Concluding this post with Marcus 'Anthony', keeping our orchid company out on the back deck.

Have a good week everyone!

Khairul Bariah