seed capsule
I think you have a branch in the spike coming out of a node and a seed capsule on the tip of the spike. Dealing with a seed capsule is a long and complex explanation so I suggest you get a copy of Ortho's "All About Orchids" and read up on it. It is fairly inexpensive and the big box stores usually have it and it is a good basic book. I myself am just not interested in going through the 5 to 7 years to get your first blooms and dealing with the sterile conditions necessary for seed propagation. If you aren't interested in pursuing that, I'd cut the seed capsule off since it is probably draining most of the growth energy from the plant. That could also be why the branch hasn't grown any more. About every 4 to 6 inches up the spike, there will be circular structures around the spike. These are the nodes. If you are going to cut the capsule off, I'd go to the node above where the branch comes out (toward the bloom) and cut the spike about 1/2 inch above that node. This way your branch may continue to grow and produce some more flowers for you. Good luck.
Sandra in South Carolina
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