The Phalaenopsis Orchid

Deriving its name from the Greek word meaning 'moth-like', the flowers on the Phalaenopsis are likened to a moth's wings in flight. It is likely when you think of an orchid you think of the Phalaenopsis orchid. With its large green leaves and arching stems displaying beautiful clouds of blooms they provide a striking backdrop to any room and feature heavily in many home design magazines. There are over 45 wild species of Phalaenopsis that can be commonly found from Australia heading west across South East Asia to India. More than any other orchid, the Phalaenopsis has been hybridized to produce more or less blooms, longer or shorter stems and an entire spectrum of colors from white through to the classic pink/purple flowers. Blooming toward the end of winter or in the first throes of spring, their flowers can last up to three months with each spike producing as many as 25 flowers. Being an epiphyte (it grows on trees or rocks), this variety of orchid is happiest in a moist, warm and shady environment which is relatively easy to emulate around the home and perhaps, as well as its obvious beauty, explains why this orchid is so popular.

Caring for Phalaenopsis Orchids

If you follow some basic rules you should be able to keep a Phalaenopsis orchid for a long time with multiple blooms many times a year. Here are some of the key factors that you should control when looking after your Phalaenopsis.

Lighting

Preferring a location near a window in the west aspect of the home, your Phalaenopsis prefers a mix of shade and sunlight. It is important though to watch that your Phal doesn't suffer sunburn. Yellow leaves on your orchid are a prime indicator that your plant is getting too much sun. This type of orchid also thrives well under artificial grow lamps. These should be placed about 30cm away from the plant and should be on for 8 - 12 hours a day, emulating the sunlight of their native environment.

Temperature and Humidity

Although preferring a temperature between 75°F - 85 °F a Phalaenopsis can adapt quite easily to something approximating the 65 °F - 75 °F range experienced in most homes. They also require plenty of humidity. This can be achieved artificially and simply in two ways by either filling a tray of water and placing it below (no roots should touch the water) the orchid, or by grouping a number of plants together. In order to achieve long lasting blooms the Phalaenopsis requires significant temperature variations with 55°F being ideal at night.

Watering

Being an epiphyte, the Phalaenopsis absorbs its water from the surrounding environment. This makes the potting media very important. The media needs to be evenly moist but shouldn't soak the roots which very quickly causes rotting. This type of orchid doesn't need much watering and the frequency varies throughout the year depending on the phase that the orchid is in - blooming or otherwise. As a rule of thumb, watering your orchid every second week should be plenty when the orchid is in bloom.

Potting

Phalaenopsis orchids should be repotted when the roots start to grow outside the pot, which during the main growth phases can be as frequently as every six months. One note of caution however is that a Phalaenopsis should never be repotted while it is in bloom. Pots sizes range from 2 to 6 inches in diameter across the top of the pot and a frequently clear. This is perfect for these plants as it allows for the roots to benefit from the light that they receive. The base media should ideally be bark often mixed with charcoal to absorb moisture. In very dry conditions you might want to consider use sphagnum moss that can be found at most garden centers.

...and Finally...

The Phalaenopsis Orchid is the perfect choice for the novice and expert gardener alike. They provide a great introduction to the wonderful world of orchids and are absolutely stunning. They are easy to grow and maintain and will provide pleasure for years if cared for properly.