Overview
Phalaenopsis gigantea is a columnar upright conservatory greenhouse in the genus Phalaenopsis, part of the Orchidaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Phalaenopsis gigantea grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Phalaenopsis gigantea is a species of orchid endemic to the island of Borneo and was first described in 1909. The specific epithet gigantea refers to the giant size of its fleshy leaves, which can grow to over 60 cm in length on a mature plant. It is the largest known Phalaenopsis species. Grow it in partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs tropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1a). It works well for houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and east-facing and west-facing aspects. Grow in a bark-based orchid compost in bright, indirect light. Water weekly, allowing roots to dry between waterings. Min 16�C.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phalaenopsis gigantea
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 gigantea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phalaenopsis gigantea
- Propagation
- Keiki removal
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, aphids, scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Bacterial rots
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phalaenopsis gigantea?
Phalaenopsis gigantea prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phalaenopsis gigantea need?
Phalaenopsis gigantea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Phalaenopsis gigantea hardy in the UK?
Phalaenopsis gigantea 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 gigantea?
Keiki removal.
More in the Phalaenopsis genus
- Phalaenopsis 'Dream'
- Phalaenopsis Little Mermaid ('Mi00832')
- Phalaenopsis corningiana
- Phalaenopsis fuscata
- Phalaenopsis sanderiana
- Phalaenopsis stobartiana 'Anja'
- Phalaenopsis 'Bling Bling'PBR
- Phalaenopsis 'Calimero Micro'