Troubleshooting
Tiger Orchid problems — and how to fix them
Tiger Orchid (Grammatophyllum speciosum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Never flowers
By far the commonest issue: the plant must be very large and mature, given strong light and a distinct dry rest. Patience over years, bright light, and a ripening rest are essential to trigger spikes.
Root and base rot
From overly fine or wet media in such a large plant. Use very coarse, fast-draining mix and a sturdy container, and respect the drier rest period.
Leaf scorch
Bleached or burnt patches when moved too quickly into strong sun. Increase light gradually so leaves acclimate to high intensity.
Scale and mealybugs on canes
Pests lodge among the large pseudobulbs and leaf bases. Inspect regularly and treat with horticultural oil or systemic controls, repeating to clear hidden crawlers.
Prevent tiger orchid problems before they start
Most tiger orchid issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for tiger orchid in general rather than its problems? Read the full tiger orchid care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Tiger Orchid problems — FAQ
Why is my tiger orchid never flowers?
By far the commonest issue: the plant must be very large and mature, given strong light and a distinct dry rest. Patience over years, bright light, and a ripening rest are essential to trigger spikes.
Why is my tiger orchid root and base rot?
From overly fine or wet media in such a large plant. Use very coarse, fast-draining mix and a sturdy container, and respect the drier rest period.
Why is my tiger orchid leaf scorch?
Bleached or burnt patches when moved too quickly into strong sun. Increase light gradually so leaves acclimate to high intensity.
Why is my tiger orchid scale and mealybugs on canes?
Pests lodge among the large pseudobulbs and leaf bases. Inspect regularly and treat with horticultural oil or systemic controls, repeating to clear hidden crawlers.