Plant Finder - the ultimate garden reference resource
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Common Names
Moth Orchid
Butterfly Orchid
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Botanic Name
Genus: Phalaenopsis
Species: cultivars
Variety:
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Type: Orchid
Family: ORCHIDACEAE
Origins: Malaysia
Light: Moderate/Dappled Shade
Wind: Sheltered
Growth: Fast
Frost: Tender
Evergreen: No
Native: No
Height: 0.6m
Width: 0.3m
Position
Glasshouse
Hanging Basket
Indoor
Pots & Planters
Under Trees
RETAIL Availability
Easy to find
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Flower Colour
Assorted
White
Flowering Time
(Southern Hemisphere)
March
April
May
June
Climate Zone
Zone: 10
Zone: 11
Zone: 12
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This information is provided as a free service to viewers. We do not sell these plants.
Overview
Phalaenopsis or the Moth Orchid is an epiphytic orchid with broad green fleshy leaves around 35cms long and arching stems that bear panicles of variously coloured and speckled flowers up to 12cms across in autumn.
They are particularly beautiful flowers looking rather like a swarm of butterflies.
They need warmer, tropical climates to do well outdoors, otherwise they go well indoors (when flowering only) or in a glasshouse.
Because of the range of colours, the long flowering time and the compact nature these are some of the most popular orchids grown as houseplants and they are very easy to keep.
Soil: Open but organically rich compost or a specific orchid mix which will be a mix of bark with some sphagnum moss in it.
Maintenance: Keep well ventilated and do not let moisture remain on the plant. Don't water with overly chilled water, and don't over water.
These are the only orchids that will re-flower from the same stem. When the flowering is almost over and only a couple of flowers are left, cut the stem just above the last flower and a new stem will grow from the node within a few months. You can cut back the stem off completely, this is not a problem, a new stem will grow from the base.
If your plant is failing to flower then move to a cooler position with more light.
Diseases: Slugs, snails and two spotted mites.
Other Species: 50 species in the Phalaenopsis genus in all with thousands of cultivars created to satisfy the massive demand from florists.
Author: Bob Saunders.
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Here we list businesses who usually sell this plant.
Online Retailers
Gardenarium
Based in South Australia, specialising in mainstream, rare and unusual perennial plants along with roses and ornamental trees.
Delivery to: ACT,NSW,NT,QLD,SA,VIC,WA
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Local Retailers
SA |
Mount Gambier:
Gardenarium |
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