Vanda javierae, a type of Vanda, belonging to the orchid family (Orchidaceae

Orchidaceae

The Orchidaceae, commonly referred to as the orchid family, is a morphologically diverse and widespread family of monocots in the order Asparagales. Along with the Asteraceae, it is one of the two largest families of flowering plants, with between 21,950 and 26,049 currently accepted species,...

), is the only white vanda orchid in the world. It is one of the world's most rarest vanda orchids and is an endangered species.

V. javierae is found only in the island of Luzon

Luzon

Luzon is the largest island in the Philippines. It is located in the northernmost region of the archipelago, and is also the name for one of the three primary island groups in the country centered on the Island of Luzon...

in the Philippines. It is also known as Mrs. Javier's Vanda.

Characteristics

V. javierae has leaves which are 20 cm long and are leathery. It grows up to 35 cm and yields at least 5-6 distinct white flowers with red-brown lip.

Habitat

V. javierae is only endemic to the Island of Luzon where it is considered endangered. This exotic orchid is nearly found everywhere which are at mid altitudes and are near streams.