Orchid update for First Ray

[waretrop]

In July 1999 we bought a Vanda that you stated was rescued from a deforestation project. You called it Vanda "Big Blue". Just wanted you to know it is doing very well. It blooms about twice a year. The flowers are deep blue about 3 to 4 inches across and last 6 to 8 weeks.



We also bought a couple Catasetum interigum that are beautiful. Although very difficult to bloom. About 3 times in the last 6 years.



Thanks for the years of enjoyment and welcome to our little orchid world. Barb and Kerry Teats waretrop

[Ray]

I know I was lucky enough to distribute some plants from deforestation rescues, but I guarantee that the vanda wasn't part of that. It's a hybrid, and unfortunately an unkown one at that.

Nice growing, and thanks!

[waretrop]

WOW, How could we have misunderstood such a thing? We love it anywhy. The flowers are gigantic. Barb :~)

[FSchimpf]

Hi:
I agree with Ray. It's a hybrid. I am thinking V. Tokyo Blue....but I could be wrong.

Here's a picture I took a couple of years ago. Very large flowers like you said. Hope this comes out OK. I recognized your picture right away, so I'm interested in seeing how the 2 pictures contrast.

Frank

[Ray]

There's no question it's a hybrid Frank, but I'd recommend against trying to ID a plant by its flowers. There are so many blue vandas out there that it's impossible to know or sure.

With species you might have a chance, but once that tag's gone on a hybrid, forget it. You might make a lucky guess, but more likely you'll end up wrong, which could have some grave consequences in somebody's breeding program.

[FSchimpf]

Like I said.... I could be wrong....

...if it looks like a duck..

Frank