Tiger Orchid
grammatophyllum speciosum
Also known as: ["Queen of Orchids","Giant Orchid"]
Overview
A large, epiphytic orchid species native to Southeast Asia, known for its impressive size and striking yellow-green flowers with reddish-brown spots.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Grammatophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Grammatophyllum speciosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or sheltered outdoor location with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Orchid bark mix with perlite, charcoal, and a small amount of sphagnum moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: high
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed; after flowering or when pseudobulbs die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; focus on removing non-viable parts without over-pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal changes to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure medium is airy; avoid compacted soil; refresh every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F) at night promote blooming.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent day/night cycles; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; apply to moist soil to prevent root damage; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of pseudobulbs; occasionally through backbulbs or seed (rarely done by home growers).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate pseudobulbs with at least 3 growths, pot in fresh medium, water lightly, provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Fine orchid bark mix or sphagnum moss with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help with backbulbs.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; backbulbs: 6–12 months to root and grow.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterilized pot, orchid mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has healthy roots; keep humidity high post-division; avoid overwatering new divisions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut dead pseudobulbs at the base; trim flower spikes just above the next bud or to the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing pseudobulbs to redirect energy to healthy growth; trim spent flower spikes.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears, sharp knife.
Checklist
Identify dead parts, sterilize tools, cut cleanly, dispose of debris, monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering, when new growth starts.
Pot Size
One pot size larger; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim dead roots, repot in fresh orchid mix with good drainage, position pseudobulbs above soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when medium breaks down; essential for large root systems.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh medium, position plant, water lightly, provide shade post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, bud drop, stunted growth, or leaf necrosis.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) at half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the roots or rhizomes of Grammatophyllum speciosum. The toxicity is generally low but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the roots and rhizomes of Grammatophyllum speciosum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant does not pose a severe threat but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGrammatophyllum speciosum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The roots and rhizomes are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall can Grammatophyllum speciosum grow?
A: It can grow up to 2.5 meters in height, making it one of the largest orchid species.
Q: Does this orchid require special care?
A: Yes, it needs high humidity, bright indirect light, and a well-draining medium to thrive.
Q: How often does it bloom?
A: It typically blooms once a year, producing large, fragrant flowers that can last for several weeks.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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