HUGE Vanda Ricky Perez Basket Orchid WHOPPER Fragrant ~

Vanda Ricky Perez is a highly fragrant, strap-leaved Vanda orchid hybrid officially registered with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in 2019 by R.F. Orchids. Originated by Kultana, this choice hybrid is a cross between Vanda Kultana Fragrance and Vanda tessellata. Because many plants of this cross are grown from seed, individual specimens exhibit slight variations in flower color, patterning, and exact scent profiles, making each sibling uniquely distinctive.

Genetic Breakdown & Characteristics

The hybrid's unique traits are heavily anchored by its ancestral species:

• Vanda tessellata (75%): Dominates the hybrid's genetic makeup, passing down its famous intense fragrance, exotic wavy petals, and intricate lip structures.

• Vanda sanderiana (16.94%): Contributes to the larger, rounder flower form and flatter face structure.

• Vanda coerulea (6.25%): Softly influences the background tones, tessellation patterns, and cool color resilience.

The flowers typically feature intricate splotches or tessellations, often showcasing a beautiful contrast between the sepals, petals, and a brightly colored lip.

Care & Growing Guide

Because it is bred heavily from Vanda tessellata, this hybrid inherits an adaptable growth habit but thrives best under classic Vanda cultivation:

• Light: Requires bright, indirect sunlight. When grown under strong lights or optimal sun, the upper leaves may develop safe, dark purple splotches (anthocyanin pigment), which is a great indicator that the orchid is receiving enough energy to bloom.

• Watering & Airflow: Best grown completely bareroot in wooden baskets or securely mounted to cork. They require daily watering or heavy misting with rapid drying times, supported by consistent, gentle air circulation from a fan.

• Temperature: Thrives in intermediate to warm tropical environments, performing brilliantly in ambient temperatures between 65°F and 95°F (18°C to 35°C).

• Feeding: Heavy feeders during active growth. Apply a balanced orchid fertilizer weakly every week, flushing the root system with clean, pure water once a month to prevent salt buildup