Rhynchostylis retusa var. alba

Introducing the Enchanting Alba Foxtail Orchid: Rhynchostylis retusa var. alba 

Elevate your botanical experience with the rare and captivating Alba Foxtail Orchid. With its exquisite white blooms and a fragrance that enchants the senses, this orchid variety is a true treasure for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The Alba Foxtail Orchid, also known as Rhynchostylis retusa var. alba, stands as a testament to nature's beauty and elegance. Its unique characteristic lies in its scarcity, making it a coveted find compared to its pink counterpart.

Renowned as the Foxtail Orchid, Rhynchostylis retusa is a spectacle to behold. Its pendulous inflorescences, cascading in grace, transform any setting into an exhibition of floral artistry. The alba form showcases pure white blossoms, radiating a sense of purity and grace.

Embodying the moniker "foxtail," these orchids draw their name from the elongated clusters of blooms, reminiscent of a fox's tail. These alluring clusters can stretch up to an impressive 37 centimeters in length.

As a kin to Rhynchostylis gigantea, the Rhynchostylis retusa holds its own allure as the state flower of Assam, India. This exotic flowering marvel, gracing us with its presence once a year during March-April, unveils cylindrical inflorescences that reach 40 to 45 centimeters. Over a hundred white flowers, adorned with delicate pink accents, compose this symphony of botanical beauty.

In the heart of Assam, the Rhynchostylis retusa takes center stage during the vibrant Bihu festival. Symbolizing love and celebration, it finds its place adorning the hair of Bihu dancers, locally known as 'Kapou Phool.' This elegant tradition is a testament to the flower's significance in Assamese culture, where dance, music, and the spirit of festivity converge.

Cultivating the Alba Foxtail Orchid:

Nurturing your Alba Foxtail Orchid requires a balance of care and understanding. This orchid thrives in bright, indirect light, with diffuse sunlight being optimal. Shield it from intense afternoon rays to prevent leaf scorching, while ensuring ample air circulation around its roots.

As a thermophilic species, this orchid flourishes within a temperature range of 21.5-33 °C during the day and 18.5-25 °C at night. Springtime warmth around 24-35 °C is well-suited, as is maintaining a similar temperature range in winter.

Humidity plays a crucial role, with levels around 80% for most of the year, moderating to 70-75% in winter and early spring. Cooler temperatures (<21 degrees) permit humidity reduction to 40-70%. Pay heed to the moisture discrepancy between aerial and underground components—allowing the aboveground to remain drier mitigates the risk of rot, while the root system thrives on moisture.

Emulating its natural habitat, seasonal rainfall patterns impact its care. Abundant watering during the growing season mirrors the plant's thirst in the wild, but swift drying post-watering is essential. For potted or hanging specimens, be cautious of wet substrate, using clean, preferably filtered water.

Preferred Growth Techniques:

For optimal growth, consider mounting your orchid to cork or hanging it in baskets with loose, fast-drying soil. This setup allows the roots to breathe and dry quickly after watering. Achieve success with a blend of medium and large spruce bark pieces alongside charcoal.

While repotting can unsettle these orchids, a yearly repotting schedule is advised for those potted in bark mixes to prevent root system deterioration. Shallow planting promotes rapid adaptation, ideally timed during new root growth phases.

During active growth, weekly orchid fertilizer applications sustain their vitality and vigor.

Rest Period Care:

In winter, the Alba Foxtail Orchid necessitates reduced watering. Adapt to local humidity—occasional spraying complements sparse watering in high humidity environments. For drier settings, adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Ensure that the plant never dries out completely, while reducing or eliminating fertilization until spring signals renewed growth.

This is a blooming size in a 4” pot about 1 to 2 years to bloom, grown from seed, limited!

Elevate your horticultural journey with the Alba Foxtail Orchid, a living masterpiece that flourishes with mindful care and rewards with timeless elegance.