RHS A small to medium-sized, evergreen, epiphytic orchid with semi-pendant, green or mottled green-grey leaves. The leaves are broadly oval or elliptic, up to 35cm long and 4-7cm wide. Long-lasting, white, flowers up to 8cm across with dark brown spots on lower sepals and lip are carried on upright, arching, simple or branching stems throughout the year
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in an open bark-based orchid compost or mounted on cork bark, where sufficient humidity can be provided. Provide enough bright filtered light, but keep away from direct mid-day sunlight or heating source. Ideal temperatures are around 17°C at night and 20 - 25 °C during day. Mist aerial roots regularly and water the plant when almost dry - pale, silvery roots are a good indication when to water. Orchid fertiliser can be applied regularly throughout the season. See Phalaenopsis cultivation for more details
Propagation by seed is only possible in controlled laboratory environment. Mature plants may produce sideshoots (keiki) which may be removed and potted separately into sphagnum moss when the new roots are at least 2cm long
No pruning required. Cut back green flowered stem to lower node to encourage further flowering. Remove the flowered stems once yellow and dry
May be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids and scale insects
Generally disease-free. Avoid watering centre of the leaf crown, to prevent bacterial rots