Length/direction of Dracula spikes

[critterguy]

Just wondering-what controls the length and direction of Dracula spikes? I am growing D. cordobae in a terrarium and considering having it switch places with D. mopsus.

I've seen pictures that seem to have flowers oriented in a variety of directions. Usually the flowers are growing downward on fairly pendant spikes but some photos I've seen of flowers growing straight ahead or even somewhat upward. I have the cordobae near the back of the tank and am wondering if the spikes will grow towards the front of the tank or if they will just go hide in shame somewhere in the greenery.

[RosieC]

Sorry can't help as I've not grown these. Hope someone will be able to help you.

[Polarizeme]

Some of my Dracs grow spikes through the side of the net pots. Some through the bottom and others upward across the top of the medium. It depends on the species. The length of the spike is also determined by the species.
Look up your plants on the Internet Orchid Species Encyclopedia
There is a ton of good information on that website.

---------- Post added at 11:27 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:24 PM ----------

As far as determining the direction, they will bloom in the direction that is most suitable for them. Most of mine bloom toward the shade, which is completely opposite of the rest of my Pleuros

[Lordoftheswarms]

They can sometimes switch. I haven't been able to determine what controls it. I know different clones of the same species can have a preference to grow the inflorescence up or down.

[critterguy]

I guess I will have to wait and see. A lot of photos of cordobae show very pendant spikes. The longest spike on my plant just aborted but I see several short ones that may stay on.