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Grammatophyllum speciosum

Giant orchid

Grammatophyllum speciosum, commonly known as the Giant Orchid, is one of the world's largest orchid species. Native to Southeast Asia, this magnificent epiphyte is celebrated for its massive, pendulous inflorescences. Beyond its stunning aesthetic appeal, it holds significant cultural value and remains a fascinating subject in botanical studies.

  • Scientific name: Grammatophyllum speciosum
  • Family: Orchidaceae
  • Native range: Asia-Tropical

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it is further organized into the order Asparagales and the family Orchidaceae. Finally, its specific taxonomic identity is established within the genus Grammatophyllum.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Asparagales WCVP
Family Orchidaceae WCVP
Genus Grammatophyllum WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Grammatophyllum speciosum, is recognized by various names across different cultures and languages. In English, it is commonly referred to as the Giant orchid, while in German, it is called the Tiger-Orchidee. In Indonesia, the plant is known as Anggrek Tebu, and in Thailand, it is identified as ว่านเพชรหึง. Additionally, in Bulgarian, it is known as тигрова орхидея.
Language Common Name Source
en Giant orchid Wikidata
de Tiger-Orchidee Wikidata
id Anggrek Tebu Wikidata
th ว่านเพชรหึง Wikidata
bg тигрова орхидея Wikidata
ml ഗ്രാമറ്റോഫൈലം സ്പെഷിയോസം Wikidata
de-at Tiger-Orchidee Wikidata
de-ch Tiger-Orchidee Wikidata
ja グラマトフィルム・スペキオスム Wikidata
ta பெரிய ஆர்க்கிடு Wikidata

Distribution

This plant exhibits a broad geographical distribution across several key regions in Southeast Asia. Within the Indo-China territory, it can be found growing in Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Additionally, its presence extends into the Malesia region, specifically on the island of Borneo. These diverse locations suggest that the species is well-adapted to various tropical environments. Consequently, its range spans from mainland Southeast Asia to the major islands of the archipelago.

Region Area Source
Indo-China Laos WCVP
Indo-China Myanmar WCVP
Indo-China Thailand WCVP
Indo-China Vietnam WCVP
Malesia Borneo WCVP
Malesia Jawa WCVP
Malesia Malaya WCVP
Malesia Sulawesi WCVP
Malesia Sumatera WCVP
Southwestern Pacific Fiji WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Grammatophyllum speciosum, is a massive epiphytic orchid characterized by a distinct anatomical structure. Its growth is supported by a robust pseudobulb, which serves as a vital storage organ for water and nutrients, allowing the plant to thrive in its tropical environment. From the base of these thickened stems, the root system extends to anchor the plant securely onto its host trees while absorbing moisture and minerals. Above the surface, the prominent aerial part consists of large, arching leaves and impressive inflorescences, which are essential for photosynthesis and the production of its spectacular floral displays.
Total parts
3
Scientific sources
3
Plant Part Sources Confidence
root 1 ★☆☆☆☆
pseudobulb 1 ★☆☆☆☆
aerial part 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Grammatophyllum speciosum has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include flavonoid.

Total chemicals
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
flavonoid 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Grammatophyllum speciosum has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include skin cancer, wound healing.

Total uses
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
skin cancer 1 ★☆☆☆☆
wound healing 1 ★☆☆☆☆