Growing and Caring for Foxtail Orchids (Rhynchostylis)
Foxtail orchids are beautiful, easy-to-grow plants that add a touch of elegance to any home. They’re named for their long, fluffy flower spikes that resemble a fox’s tail.
Growing Conditions
Foxtail orchids are epiphytic plants, which means they grow on trees in their natural habitat. They prefer warm, humid climates with filtered or dappled light.
Potting Media: Foxtail orchids grow best in clay pots with side drainage or wooden baskets filled with chunky bark or lava rocks. These materials provide good drainage and aeration, which is essential for preventing root rot.
Light: Foxtail orchids prefer filtered or dappled light. They can tolerate brighter indoor light during the fall and winter, but direct sunlight can burn their leaves.
Humidity: Humidity is critical for foxtail orchids. They should be misted or watered daily, especially if they’re grown indoors where the humidity is low.
Care
Watering: Water your foxtail orchid thoroughly with lukewarm water, then allow the pot to drain for at least 15 minutes before returning it to its drainage saucer. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing: Feed your foxtail orchid every other watering with a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20. During the winter, feed your orchid every three weeks with a fertilizer mixed to half strength. Alternatively, you can feed your orchid weekly with a fertilizer mixed to one-quarter strength. Don’t overfeed your orchid, and be sure to fertilize after watering to avoid burning the roots.
Repotting: Foxtail orchids don’t like to be disturbed, so repot them only when necessary. Repot your orchid when it begins to grow over the sides of the container.
Common Problems
Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem for foxtail orchids. It’s caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, make sure your orchid has good drainage and don’t overwater it.
Pests: Foxtail orchids are relatively pest-free, but they can occasionally be bothered by mealybugs, scale, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Varieties
There are many different varieties of foxtail orchids, each with its own unique flower color and shape. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Rhynchostylis gigantea: This is the largest variety of foxtail orchid, with flower spikes that can reach up to 3 feet long.
- Rhynchostylis retusa: This variety has smaller flower spikes than R. gigantea, but they’re more densely packed.
- Rhynchostylis coelestis: This variety has beautiful blue-purple flowers.
- Rhynchostylis violacea: This variety has deep purple flowers.
With proper care, foxtail orchids can thrive for many years and produce beautiful flowers season after season.