Phalaenopsis Orchids

The name for Phalaenopsis Orchids came from the Greek “Phalaina” meaning mothlike, and “opsis” meaning resembling.

The genus seems to currenty have about 70 species of plants. They are seemingly separated by subtle variations. We are providing a high-level grouping for now as we begin to add species pages.

Repot these plants every 2 years or if you notice potting material washing out at watering time.

  • Core Identification & Taxonomy
    • Scientific Name: Phalaenopsis
    • Common Name: Moth Orchid, Moon Orchid
    • Family: Orchidaceae
    • Varietals:
    • Habitat/Range: Asia, New Guinea, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines
  • Morphology & Characteristics
    • Growth Habit: Epiphytic (grows on surface of another plant), or even Lithophytic (grows on rock surfaces)
    • Leaves: Thick Leathery Leaves, opposite rows
    • Flowers: Have Sepals and petals free from each other
    • Propagation: Seeds
  • Notes
    • Sun Exposure: Indirect light, maybe use a sun shade or screen, temperatures between 20C-32C are ideal
    • Water: High humidity 70-80%, minumum 50%, water bath 5-10 minutes once a week, roots must dry completely after bath, no watering at night ond try to not get the crown wet.
    • Fertilzer: every 2 weeks after watering, 10-10-10 mix
    • Growing approach: Sphagum Moss, Bark, Cococubes
  • Phalaenopsis
    • Subgen Phalaenopsis
      • Polychilos
      • Phalaenopsis
    • Subgen Parishianae
      • Aphyllae
      • Parishianae
    • Subgen Hygrochilus
    • Subgen Ornithocilus