How to Recognize the Orchid Rhynchostylis

The Rhynchostylis gigantea is a purple-hued orchid native to the tropical Southeast Asian country of Thailand. The flower is fairly versatile, and it will push through cool weather and low light -- although it prefers the warm, tropical climates of its native country. The orchid likes mid to high humidity -- up to 70 percent during its growing season and up to 60 percent in its dry season.

Instructions

- 1
  Observe the leaves of the Rhynchostylis gigantea. They have a deep-green hue and a length of up to 12 inches. They are about 3 inches wide and have a notch at the end.
- 2
  Take note of the time of year. In the northern hemisphere, the Rhynchostylis gigantea begins to flower in January and continues flowering for about four months. If you are looking at an orchid that resembles the Rhynchostylis gigantea but is not flowering during this time, you may need to double-check.
- 3
  Memorize the attributes of the flowers. The Rhynchostylis gigantea's flowers are purple and white. Some albino forms are a burgundy hue. The blooms are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch wide and are arranged on a cascading stem called a spray. On the spray, you will see about 30 or more small blooms.
- 4
  Take a deep breath. If you smell citrus, then you probably are looking at a Rhynchostylis gigantea orchid.

Bumps on an Orchid's Root

Straw Flower Varieties

Flower Basics