Our National Flower : Vanda Miss Joaquim (Hybrid Orchids)

The decision to have a national flower was part of an overall effort to foster national pride and identity on 15 April 1981. Out of 40 flowers, in which 30 were of the orchid species, the Vanda Miss Joaquim was picked to be Singapore’s national flower. This flower is a hybrid, a crossbreed of flowers, betweenVanda hookeriana andVanda teres. Singapore is the ONLY country to have a hybrid flower as its national flower.

The orchid is named after Miss Agnes Joaquim, an experienced Armenian horticulturalists, who is recognized for having bred the flower in her Tanjong Pagar garden. Miss Agnes was part of Singapore’s small Armenian community back then and was known for her love of gardening.

A sturdy inflorescence of Vanda ‘Miss Joaquim’ can carry up to twelve buds, typically with 4 flowers open at a time. The flowers are about five centimeters across and six centimeters tall. The petals of this flower are twisted around. The rear surface is forward-facing. The 2 petals and the top sepal are rosy-violet in color.

The Agnes variety was chosen back then for its specific properties: resilience, hardiness, and vibrant colors; which were believed to be reflective of the Singaporean character. This hybrid orchid was also chosen because many believed back then that it was representative of the unique personality of Singapore: a country where people of many different ethnicities live together harmoniously.

In Singapore, Orchid gifts are a nice way to bring Singaporean magic home. Some jewelry brands in Singapore make necklaces, earrings, and brooches crafted by gold plating real orchid. The Singapore orchid is also used in aromatherapy. Because of the light and sweet fragrance, Singapore orchid is perfect for gifts and souvenirs. It is free-flowering. People can spot the free-flowering plant at the National Orchid Garden at the Botanic Gardens, the Vanda Miss Joaquim Pavilion at Craig Road, and at Agnes Joaquim’s tombstone at the Armenian Church of Saint Gregory the Illuminator.

With its wonderful meaning and vibrant color, the Vanda Miss Joaquim is always the perfect choice when it comes to gifting. Whether it is decked in a bouquet, a vase, or even a box, orchids will light up the ambiance of a room and bring calmness to it. Not to forget, it is also a sweet reminder to the loved ones of your true heartfelt intentions. A gift that expresses your true love and admiration. Have fresh orchids delivered to your loved ones today. Nothing will make you happier than seeing a smile on their face and we are always more than happy to help.

Flowers represent a variety of meanings for all Southeast Asian countries. Check out our article below to know more about SEA National Flowers and their significance.