photo linkWaling-waling (Euanthe sanderiana) is considered the most beautiful and popular orchid species from the Philippines. An epiphyte that thrives on branches of tall trees, it is widespread in the rainforests of Mindanao in the provinces of Cotabato, Davao, Sultan Kudarat, Surigao, and Zamboanga. Since its discovery in 1882 the elegant orchid had faced the threat of extinction, primarily due to the destruction of its natural habitat and over-collections by local inhabitants.
photo linkThe Waling-waling is a strap-leaf orchid species that comes in two forms — pink and white. It grows up to 1 meter tall with long narrow leaves. The flowers are flat about eight cm across and the leaves are about 40 cm long and 3 cm wide. The petals are obviate, bluish pink, with buff-yellow stain. The sepals are greenish with purple streaks.
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The Euanthe sanderiana or The Vanda sanderiana, thrives in a partly shaded location and blooms during the monsoon season (from July to October ). Studies have shown that the species growing at high bears flowers early. The flower comes in variety of colors including pink, brown, yellow and various shades of green. The best place to see the orchid is in the forest trees in Davao, and Surigao.
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The Waling-waling “Queen of Philippine Orchids,” is desired by orchid breeders and growers for its showy and attractive flowers. Furthermore, the native Bagobo people worship the majestic orchid as “Diwata,” a tree goddess.
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