phalaenopsis

Phalaenopsis, or moth orchids, is a genus of orchids in the family Orchidaceae. Native to tropical Asia and Australia, the genus comprises around 60 to 70 species and has become one of the most widely cultivated orchids worldwide, largely through extensive hybridization that produced numerous cultivars with long-lasting flowers.

Description: Phalaenopsis plants are typically epiphytic or lithophytic with a monopodial growth habit, meaning they produce new leaves from a single growing point. They have thick, dark green, strap-shaped leaves and thick, aerial roots. The inflorescences are arching or pendant flower spikes bearing several broad, waxy flowers that come in white, pink, yellow, purple, and patterned forms.

Habitat and cultivation: In the wild they grow among tropical forest canopies from the Himalayas to Australia. In cultivation they require warm temperatures, bright but indirect light, and relatively high humidity. A well-draining orchid mix and pots designed for epiphytic orchids are typical. Watering should be thorough but allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings; avoid letting the plant sit in water.

Flowering and propagation: Many Phalaenopsis cultivars flower for weeks and even months; individual blooms may last 1–3 months. Spikes may produce keikis or rebloom, and spent blooms are often removed. The genus is also propagated commercially by seed under sterile conditions or by tissue culture, and home growers frequently cultivate hybrid varieties.