Guide to the National Flower of Singapore: Vanda Miss Joaquim

The national flower of Singapore is the Vanda Miss Joaquim, a hybrid orchid named after Agnes Joaquim, an Armenian horticulturist who bred it in 1893. It was officially designated as Singapore’s national flower on April 15, 1981. The flower symbolizes the nation’s resilience, vibrancy, and multicultural harmony.

History and Origin

Agnes Joaquim, a prominent figure in Singapore’s horticultural community, developed this hybrid by crossing Vanda teres and Vanda hookeriana. The flower was first recorded in 1893 and gained recognition for its beauty and hardiness. In 1981, the Vanda Miss Joaquim was chosen from among 40 other flowers to represent Singapore due to its resilience, year-round blooming ability, and vibrant colors, reflecting the nation’s spirit.

Characteristics

The flower has vibrant purple-pink petals with a striking orange-yellow center. Its blooms are large, measuring about 5–6 cm in diameter. It is a free-flowering orchid, meaning it blooms continuously throughout the year. It thrives in Singapore’s tropical climate, requiring plenty of sunlight and humidity. The flower’s resilience mirrors Singapore’s ability to thrive despite challenges, and its hybrid nature reflects the country’s multicultural society.

Cultivation and Care

The Vanda Miss Joaquim prefers warm, humid conditions with temperatures between 25–30°C (77–86°F). It requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Water regularly, ensuring the roots are moist but not waterlogged. It grows best in well-draining media like charcoal, bark, or coconut husk, as it is an epiphytic orchid. It can be propagated through stem cuttings.

Cultural Significance

The Vanda Miss Joaquim is a source of pride for Singaporeans and is featured in various national campaigns, souvenirs, and artworks. It is prominently displayed in Singapore’s botanical gardens, such as the National Orchid Garden within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The flower is celebrated during National Day festivities and horticultural exhibitions.

Fun Facts

It is one of the few hybrid flowers in the world to be chosen as a national flower. The Vanda Miss Joaquim was the first orchid hybrid to be registered in Singapore. Its vibrant colors and resilience make it a popular choice for floral arrangements and corsages.

Where to See It

The National Orchid Garden, located in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, is the best place to view the Vanda Miss Joaquim and other orchid varieties. Gardens by the Bay features various orchid displays, including hybrids inspired by Vanda Miss Joaquim. The Flower Dome, a climate-controlled conservatory, showcases seasonal floral displays.

Conservation and Legacy

While the Vanda Miss Joaquim is not endangered, efforts to preserve its legacy include cultivation in botanical gardens and educational programs about its history. It remains a living testament to Singapore’s innovation and natural beauty.