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Desert Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis amabilis & Echeveria elegans (if available)[ Height: 27" - 30" ]
The Phalaenopsis Orchid—also called the Moth Orchid—features large velvety blooms on a long arching stem that emerges from olive-green foliage. In their native habitats, Phalaenopsis Orchids can be found growing in the nooks and crannies of other plants and trees, dangling beautifully amidst the tropical landscape. The blooms of the Phalaenopsis Orchid can sometimes last as long as 4 months in spaces with adequate humidity and consistently warm temperatures, making them a great economical choice as flowering houseplants. One of the easiest orchids to maintain and encourage to bloom again, the Phalaenopsis Orchid will reward you with beauty for many years to come. Here, a double-stem Phalaenopsis Orchid with white blooms is presented with three succulents in a rectangular silver vase. Succulent type is dependent on availability.
Plants make great gifts for any occasion. Send some green with PlantShed, hand-delivered to NYC + NJ, 7 days a week.
- Geographic Origin: For the orchid, mostly Indonesia & the Philippines, but also other countries in Asia. For the succulents, generally Mexico & Central America.
- Features: Elegant flowers; Conversation Piece
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Great For: Low Sunlight (while orchid is in bloom)
Plant Care Guide
Light
While blooming, place the orchid anywhere out of direct sunlight. When not in bloom, bright indirect light is best.
Water
PlantShed's orchids are potted in sphagnum moss which retains water and means the plant will need to be watered less frequently. For orchids in containers without drainage, touch the moss for dryness every 10-12 days. If top feels dry, add about a quarter cup of water per plant, keeping in mind that too much water will build up at the bottom of the container and should be avoided. If transplanted to another pot with drainage holes, water about once a week allowing excess to drain out in sink. Succulents should be able to derive enough moisture from the moss.
Level of Care
Easy! Phalaenopsis Orchids and succulents are relatively easy to grow and maintain.
Air Purifying
The NASA Clean Air Study has ranked the Phalaenopsis Orchid as one of the most efficient houseplants that remove xylene and toluene from the air we breathe.
Fertilizer
Use any balanced orchid fertilizer at half-strength every week or two. Once a month flush out the potting mix with clean water to remove any salts that may build up. Do not fertilize while orchid is in bloom. Feed succulents after repotting separately using a mild cactus fertilizer.
Temperature
Keep above 60°F at night and between 70-80°F during the day. The maximum they can handle is usually 95°F. Avoid fluctuating temperatures as this will cause unopened buds to drop.
Soil
The ideal containers for Phalaenopsis Orchids have holes on the sides to provide good drainage and air circulation. Plants in vases are a more formal presentation, but require more care in terms of watering to avoid build-up and root rot. Plants in sphagnum moss require less frequent watering, but a mixture of moss and bark is best for long-term growth. Transplant the succulents separately using a well-draining Cactus/Succulent potting mix.
Pruning & Propagation
Blooms should last several months and will then fall off on their own, but if wilted, just prune or gently break from the stem for tidier appearance. After last bloom as fallen off, cut stem down to the base to encourage leaves to grow and a new stem to emerge. On large plants, pruning above a gray node on the stem will cause the plant to bloom again in 8-12 weeks 50% of the time. Succulents can be propagated by planting stem or leaf cuttings in soil.
Pet Friendly
Yes! Phalaenopsis Orchids are non-toxic if consumed by dogs and cats. Generally, the succulents included are non-toxic as well.