Overview
Phalaenopsis is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Phalaenopsis, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Phalaenopsis grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include indoor ornamental.
About
Phalaenopsis, commonly known as the moth orchid or moth plant, is a genus of evergreen orchids with a columnar upright habit. Typically growing to between 0.1 and 0.5 metres in height and spread over 2 to 5 years, these plants thrive in partial shade with an east or west-facing aspect. They prefer well-drained, neutral loam soil and a sheltered exposure, making them well-suited for conservatories, greenhouses, or as houseplants. Their season of interest is winter, providing attractive foliage and blooms during this time.
About the genus
Phalaenopsis, also known as moth orchids, is a genus of about seventy species of plants in the family Orchidaceae. Orchids in this genus are monopodial epiphytes or lithophytes with long, coarse roots, short, leafy stems and long-lasting, flat flowers arranged in a flowering stem that often branches near the end. Orchids in this genus are native to Asia, New Guinea, and Australia, but mostly occur in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Wikipedia contributors, "Phalaenopsis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phalaenopsis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Phalaenopsis
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Phalaenopsis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Indoor ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phalaenopsis
- Propagation
- Keikis, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phalaenopsis?
Phalaenopsis prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phalaenopsis need?
Phalaenopsis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Phalaenopsis grow?
Phalaenopsis reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Phalaenopsis hardy in the UK?
Phalaenopsis has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Phalaenopsis?
Keikis, division.