Long Vs. Extra Long Stems in Mokara Orchids

Trigeneric Hybrid

• The Mokara orchid is a trigeneric plant hybridized from Ascocentrum, Vanda and Arachnis orchids. Its five petaled starfish shaped flowers last up to three weeks as a cut flower. They range in color from shades of deep purples to reds, pinks and yellows. Many varieties are bi-color spotted. Specialty orchid farm growers in Vietnam and other Asian countries have developed the extra-long stemmed varieties that are favored for wedding flower arrangements.

Vandaceous Growth Habits

• Mokara long stemmed and extra-long stemmed orchids have growth habits like their Vanda species parentage. Mokara orchids grow like Vandas, from the tip or crown of the plant. They thrive in bright light environments and some species tolerate full sun. The leaves are healthy when they are medium green with yellow undertones. Optimum temperature range is 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night and less than 95 F during the day.

Long and Extra-long Stems

• Eighteen-inch long Mokara orchid stems are often used for bridal bouquets. The individual flowers can be cut and used as bridal party boutonnieres. Flowers average 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Extra-long 22-inch stems are used to create dramatic floral centerpieces. A temperature of 65 F is the optimum temperature for indoor Mokara orchid floral arrangements.

Care

• Mokaras and all orchids prefer to grow on a sturdy potting medium such as bark chips, coconut fiber or expanded clay pebbles. The American Orchid Society recommends using a fast-draining but water-retentive medium that provides both structure and nutrients to the plant. Orchids need to be re-potted into a larger container when their root system grows over the edge. Mokara orchids need to be lightly fertilized on a weekly basis with balanced plant food.