How to Handle a Keiki Growing on Your Orchid's Flower Spike

What Is a Keiki?

A keiki (Hawaiian for "baby") is a small plantlet that grows on an orchid's flower spike. It's a clone of the parent plant and will produce identical flowers when mature. Your photo shows a keiki with two leaves and a tiny root spike emerging from the top of an old flower spike.

Should You Remove It?

Yes, once the keiki has developed roots (at least 2-3 cm long) and several leaves, you can remove and pot it separately. Two safe removal methods:

1. Twist method: Gently twist the keiki at its attachment point, being careful not to damage the roots.
2. Cut method: Use sterilized scissors to cut just below where the keiki joins the flower spike.

Supporting the Spike While the Keiki Grows

If the keiki is still small and the spike is top-heavy, stake the flower spike with a bamboo stake and secure it with soft ties or clips. The more leaves and roots the keiki develops before removal, the higher its survival rate.

Follow-Up: Is a Keiki Common?

Keiki formation depends on both genetics and environment. Some species and hybrids are more prone to producing keikis. Low light conditions can also trigger keiki development in certain hybrids because reduced light inhibits normal flower formation.