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Waling-waling (Vanda sanderiana, Euanthe sanderiana)
Vanda sanderiana
14.6514, 121.049
Field Notes
Description:
This orchid species is endemic to the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It grows as an epiphyte on old trees commonly on top of a water source from 0 to 500 MASL. Its current status is "Endangered" because of over-collection and habitat destruction. Because it's illegal to collect this plant from the wild, one can get a specimen of this plant from reputable orchid nurseries in the country. The plant pictured above is seed-grown and is already more than eight years old. There are three color forms of this species: pink-maroon (most common), white-apple green (alba), and white-golden yellow (albata). Aside from its flower's two-toned color, its most distinguishing characteristic is its missing spur at the back of its lip (All vanda species except this one have their spurs!).
This orchid species is heavily used in orchid hybridizing programs around the world. Most modern vanda hybrids that you can find in the market have this species in their parentage.
It was almost declared as the National Flower of the Philippines in 2014. The bill, however, was vetoed by then-President Benigno Aquino III.
Habitat:
Davao, Cotabato, Zamboanga, and Basilan provinces in the Mindanao Region, Philippines.
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