Plant Profile: Phalaenopsis Orchid

Scientific Name: Phalaenopsis spp.
Common Names: Moth Orchid
Native to: Southeast Asia and Northern Australia

The Phalaenopsis Orchid, often called the Moth Orchid, is one of the most popular and elegant flowering houseplants. Known for its long-lasting, arching sprays of blooms in shades of white, pink, purple, and yellow, it’s a favourite gift and a striking way to add beauty indoors. Despite their exotic look, Phalaenopsis orchids are surprisingly easy to care for once you understand their needs.

🌱 Care Instructions

• Watering: Light to Moderate – Water once a week in warmer months and less frequently in winter. Allow water to drain completely; never let the roots sit in water. Clear orchid pots make it easy to check root colour — healthy roots are green when hydrated and silvery when dry.

• Sunlight: Low to Moderate – Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, but too little light will prevent blooming. An east-facing window is ideal.

• Growth: Slow to Moderate – Phalaenopsis orchids bloom once or twice a year, with flowers lasting 6–12 weeks. Leaves grow steadily, and plants can live for many years with proper care.

Extra Tips

• Fertilise every 2–4 weeks during the growing season with a diluted orchid fertiliser.

• Cut back the flower spike after blooming — either just above a node to encourage a secondary bloom, or all the way down if the spike has dried out.

• Orchids prefer humid environments; mist occasionally or place near a humidity tray.

• Repot every 1–2 years into fresh orchid bark mix to keep roots healthy.

• Non-toxic, making them a safe choice for homes with pets.