Countdown to new NF hybrid

[Fairorchids]

In June 2013 I went to the NJ Shore Orchid Festival. Amongst several other plants, I found a nice chunky seedling of (Vanda teres x Neofinetia falcata), offered by Ten Shin Gardens from Taiwan. The center had died, so this plant had formed 3 healthy keikis, which were almost as large as the other seedlings on the table.

While small for a V teres (see post by phili back in May), it has reached a height of about 8", which is good for a NF. I moved it into brighter light about 6 weeks ago, and it has now rewarded me by forming buds on all 3 stems.

So, I am looking forward to seeing something new in 1-2 months. Photos to follow.

[WhiteRabbit]

Awesome!

[Fairorchids]

Here it is. I know for a fact that the 3 stems are a single plant, but of course they budded about 2 weeks apart.

The largest spike to the left of the hanger.
The 2nd largest spike to the right of the same strand in the hanger.
The smallest spike just above the root pointing to the right.

While it will bloom over a longer period, it will not be quite the show I had hoped for. Looks like the first spike (on the left) is about 3 weeks away from opening.

More photos to follow when it opens.

[MattWoelfsen]

Thank you for showing us this plant at this stage of flower spike development. It looks unique from either parent. I wonder if this plant is fertile or will it be like the mule? Lovely plant!

[Fairorchids]

Yes, plant falls squarely between N falcata, and V teres in appearance. And, when the first spike started, it took a while before I could tell that it was not a keiki (the first segment has a bract, which curls as if it is the start of a leaf).

Since I have been known to wield a tooth pick, if the flowers come out good, I just might try to find out whether it is fertile.

The good news so far, is that it is budding. I was concerned that the high light requirements of teres might make it hard to bloom.

[Fairorchids]

When I got to the greenhouse this morning, the first bloom was open. Vanda teres dominates, as flower is fuller than most Neofinetia falcata hybrids.

This small seedling is only setting 3-4 flowers per spike. I hope for more when the plant matures.

[NYCorchidman]

I think that is a nice mix ( in flower shape) of the two parents.
It looks like a fat neo flower. lol

[rangiku]

Love the lip!

[Fairorchids]

I am not unhappy with this one. First flower was a bit crowded by leaves, so it is not entirely symmetrical. We will have to wait for next two spikes to open, to see how good it really is.

I will be away for a couple of weeks, so next spike should be open when i get back.

[MattWoelfsen]

Whoowhoooo! I got one too! I found one for sale on EBay. Ordered it and now waiting for it! Thanks again Fairorchids for showing this plant.