(pronounced fal-en-OP-sis)

These “moth orchids” require no introduction. Once the preserve of experienced orchid growers who cultivated them in environmentally controlled growing cases they have since the early 1990’s become one of the most ubiquitous house plants of all time. They can remain in flower for up to a year. When their flowers have faded the spike should not be cut-off but instead trimmed back to the next node which will branch out and in turn develop another set of flowers. If you do prune away the entire spike, do not worry, it will eventually produce another one.

Most Phalaenopsis species originate from South-East Asia but the majority of plants grown commercially are hybrids which come in a variety of sizes, flower colours and patterns.

Did you know…

Phalaenopsis, or the ‘moth orchid’ as it is commonly known, is the most popular house plant in the world.

Temperature

Warm. Hybrids can adjust to cool.

Warm: Night temperatures between 14° and 16°C with a daytime temperature rise of about 10°C.

Cool: Night temperatures of between 10° and 12°C with a daytime rise of about 10°C. depending upon the species.

Light

Low or bright indirect but keep them in as light a position as possible during winter.

Watering

Moderately all year. Healthy plants will have green root tips which can be readily examined if grown in transparent pots. Avoid splashing water onto the leaves where it can collect and rot the stem.

Feeding

Moderate.