“The Foxtail Orchid”

Fragrant vandaceous orchid species native to Thailand, India, and various parts of southeast Asia. Rhy. retusa is among the orchid varieties commonly known as “the foxtail orchid” owing to the appearance of its pendulous bloom spike of tightly-clustered pink and white flowers.

Plants Available: The plant available is the plant pictured in the last two photos—mature, double-spiked, just beginning to open (as of 5/6/20). This particular Rhy. retusa is the Indian variety—a far less common find than the Thai retusas typically grown and sold in the states. The Indian retusa is also notable for its superior foliage.

Orchid Care: Grow in bright, filtered light (no direct sun), with good air circulation and high humidity. As with Vandas, Rhynchos can be grown bare-root, without substrate, but can also be mounted, grown in wooden baskets. If potted, use a large aggregate medium that dries quickly, allowing the roots to do the same. Water generously and fertilize regularly while plants are in active growth (typically spring and summer). Reduce water and fertilizer somewhat during the cooler months, commensurate with temperatures in the growing environment.

Note: These plants do not tolerate the cold. Protect them from temperatures below 60 F.

-