Renanthera monachica

Renanthera monachica is an epiphytic species in the genus Renanthera (family Orchidaceae), described by Oakes Ames in 1915. The genus name comes from the Latin renis (kidney) and Greek anthos (flower), referring to the shape of the petals. It is native to the Philippines (Luzon: Quezon, Rizal, Zambales; Mindanao: Surigao), where it grows on trees in open, grassy areas, usually above 500 m.

Botanical characteristics:

• Flowers: Approximately 2.5-4 cm in diameter. Pale orange, densely covered with irregular blood-red spots. 6-30 flowers (sometimes up to 50) on erect, racemose, axillary inflorescences up to approximately 45 cm long, with a long-lasting display. Blooms from late winter through spring. Nickname: Spanish dancing girl.
• Habit: Medium-sized plant, 30-60 cm. Leathery, distichous, ligulate leaves, 15-19 cm long and 1-2 cm wide, bilobed at the tip. Typical vandaceous appearance. Warm-growing.
• Distinctive features: Compact species for the genus Renanthera. Requires strong light (approximately 40,000-50,000 lux), filtered in the afternoon.

Recommended substrate: Vandaceous Substrate