Bifurcated root on Doritaenopsis (two tips on a single root?)

[lund0682]

Hi All,

I noticed something strange when watering this morning: one of the roots on my Doritaenopsis appears to have divided into two. So the one root has two tips.

I'm still new and this is the first time I've seen a bifurcated root like this. I'm not concerned in any way, as the plant seems happy and healthy, but I am curious. Is this just something that happens from time to time? (another example of the variability of nature) Or is this a super rare (and lucky) occurence - like finding a four-leafed clover?

[camille1585]

It's very normal for roots to branch out, but I think yours has an unusual way of doing it! I think I saw it only once on a Phal's aerial roots.

[Vanda lover]

I've never seen that either. Interesting.

[tucker85]

It's funny that you posted this now. I've been growing orchids for eight or nine years now and I had never seen anything like that until this week. One of my big cattleyas has a root that looks exactly like the one in your photograph. I discovered it earlier in the week and wondered what the heck was going on. Just one more orchid growing suprise.

[lund0682]

Neat! It sounds like this IS kind of a rare occurance. I love discovering new things like this.

None of my other 'regular' plants ever give me any fun surprises like this. Orchids are so cool!

[camille1585]

It's a two headed monster!