Phalaenopsis at a Glance
Temperature: 65° – 90° F days, 55° – 70° F nights
Water: Keep evenly moist, avoid wet foliage
Light: Moderate light, 70 – 80% shade, no direct sun
Humidity: 50 – 75%
Food: Twice a month
Water: Keep evenly moist, avoid wet foliage
Light: Moderate light, 70 – 80% shade, no direct sun
Humidity: 50 – 75%
Food: Twice a month
The “Moth Orchid” has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its suitability as a house plant. Recent hybrid trends have increased the color palette and floriferousness making them even more desirable. At present, Phalaenopsis, or Phals as they are commonly called, can be found in white, yellow, green, many shades of pink, and near red. Better-Gro® initiated the release of more art shade Phals expanding the palette to include oranges and autumn colors.
Origination
The genus Phalaenopsis originates in tropical Asia, the Philippines and South Pacific and can also be bred with other Asian orchid families such as Doritis and Renanthera.
Flowers
Phalaenopsis flowers may be large on long sprays (standard) or small on short, branched sprays (multiflora). Flowers may be strongly striped or spotted, adding further interest. Some may even be fragrant. Their sprays of long lasting flowers in the fall always command attention.
Climate
Phalaenopsis enjoy pretty much the same climate as we do. However, they do not like temperatures much below 50°F, and they prefer high humidity – at least 50%. Placing pots on a water-filled tray of pebbles and misting them occasionally will help satisfy this requirement.
The genus Phalaenopsis originates in tropical Asia, the Philippines and South Pacific and can also be bred with other Asian orchid families such as Doritis and Renanthera.
Flowers
Phalaenopsis flowers may be large on long sprays (standard) or small on short, branched sprays (multiflora). Flowers may be strongly striped or spotted, adding further interest. Some may even be fragrant. Their sprays of long lasting flowers in the fall always command attention.
Climate
Phalaenopsis enjoy pretty much the same climate as we do. However, they do not like temperatures much below 50°F, and they prefer high humidity – at least 50%. Placing pots on a water-filled tray of pebbles and misting them occasionally will help satisfy this requirement.
Light Requirements
Phalaenopsis do not need as much light as Cattleyas or Oncidiums, which may make them more desirable as house plants. Keeping plants a foot or so back from an east or west window should provide ample light. If you air condition your home during the summer, your Phals may be happier spending their time outdoors under a shady tree. Make sure that there is no danger of frost before moving any orchids outdoors.
Watering Requirements
Phals lack the water storage devices of Cattleya or Oncidium – meaning that they require more water. The potting medium should be kept damp but never soggy. Keeping Phals too wet will only result in root loss. It is important to remember to water Phals early in the day and avoid letting water remain on the top of the leaves or in the crown overnight. Water left standing in the crown overnight can lead to crown rot and the loss of the orchid.
Phalaenopsis do not need as much light as Cattleyas or Oncidiums, which may make them more desirable as house plants. Keeping plants a foot or so back from an east or west window should provide ample light. If you air condition your home during the summer, your Phals may be happier spending their time outdoors under a shady tree. Make sure that there is no danger of frost before moving any orchids outdoors.
Watering Requirements
Phals lack the water storage devices of Cattleya or Oncidium – meaning that they require more water. The potting medium should be kept damp but never soggy. Keeping Phals too wet will only result in root loss. It is important to remember to water Phals early in the day and avoid letting water remain on the top of the leaves or in the crown overnight. Water left standing in the crown overnight can lead to crown rot and the loss of the orchid.
