Yellow Pine Orchid

From forests in the mountains of Japan and Taiwan, the Yellow Pine Orchid boasts clusters of colorful flowers. This cute mini orchid is Gastrochilus japonicus, a Vanda relative.

Gastrochilus speciesGastrochilus flowers hanging below plantGastrochilus flower close up

This species blooms with tiny flowers dangling beneath its leaves. The entire flower cluster is only 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide. Since the blossoms hang below the plant, it’s best to grow this variety on a mount. The Yellow Pine Orchid needs regular water and high humidity.

Gastrochilus flower clusterGastrochilus flowerGastrochilus flowers

During winter dormancy, water the plant a little less, but don’t let it dry out. I move this specimen to a winter home in the back of our apartment, where it goes down to 50°F (10°C) at night, and receives slightly brighter light. I’ve found that if it doesn’t have a cooler winter, the leaves become covered with pests such as scale.

The next photos show the flowers opening with some buds still developing, and also the open flowers positioned underneath the leaves. They show what makes the Yellow Pine Orchid an unusual and adorable gem.

Gastrochilus flowers and budsGastrochilus flowers, leaves, and rootsGastrochilus species

Explore posts in the same categories: Dormancy, Fragrant Orchids, Growing, Intermediate Growers, Mini Orchids, Photos, Watering

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5 Comments on “Yellow Pine Orchid”

  1. gabriel Says:

    Great Pics And Nice Website.

  2. Joan H. Says:

    These flowers look like little painted clown faces, like they are not real! Just amazing. Thanks for the pics.

  3. Shannon Lee Says:

    I’m bored to tears at work so I decided to browse your blog on my iphone during lunch break. I enjoy orchids and the info you present here.
    I’m amazed at how quick your blog loaded on my phone .. I’m
    not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyhow, superb site!

  4. Jennifer B. Hayes Says:

    Just lovely.
    Thanks for the share.

  5. Diane McLean Says:

    This post is great. I based on my reading I thought that the only orchid types were the ones I see in the market. This taught me so much more. Thanks so much!