Moth Orchid

Scientific name: Phalaenopsis x
Synonyms: Moth Orchid

• Gorgeous pop of colour
• Long lasting flowers
• Low maintenance Orchid variety
• Adores a medium to bright light
• Perfect for gifting
• Beginner friendly

There's a good reason why Phalaenopsis are some of the most popular Orchids in cultivation and retail. They are stunning to look at, low maintenance, and produce blooms that last for weeks. Which is guaranteed to brighten up your home or workplace decor.

Moth Orchids, so called for the shape of their flowers, are not only stunning in appearance and a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns, but also surprisingly low maintenance. Their tropical nature makes them well-suited to life indoors. Preferring a medium- to brightly lit environment away from direct sunlight. They prefer high humidity but can adapt to moderate levels.

Similarly, watering is simple; the key is to wait until all the roots are silver, which is easy to check because the nursery pots are usually clear. The roots will turn a vibrant green after being watered (but please do not use ice; this causes a lot of stress for the plant). The green roots mean they have successfully absorbed all the water they require. They will rot if submerged in water for an extended period of time, so avoid doing this. Also, avoid watering the plant from the top, where the leaves meet; doing so will trap water and promote rot, eventually killing the crown of the orchid, and ultimately your plant.

Although the flowers will remain for several weeks, they will eventually die off. This does not mean your plant has died. On the contrary, it is preparing its energy reserves for its subsequent cycle of flowering. It's best to let the flower spike stay on if it's still green, as that's where future flower spikes will emerge, but if it starts to turn brown, cut it off at the last node of the stem. Keep in mind that Phalaenopsis Orchids, in response to seasonal temperature shifts, will produce new flower spikes in the winter, just in time for a showy display in the spring and summer.

All in all, these are an absolute must for any house plant grower, as they add a touch of class to any indoor garden.

Use your orchid as a showpiece by placing it in a beautiful container and displaying it on a tabletop or shelf. 

TOP TIP: Orchids prefer small containers; this helps them bloom readily. Avoid frequent repotting and never use soil. Orchids prefer Spaghnum moss or medium bark chunks.

Please note: Orchids can be toxic to pets if consumed.

STYLING TIPS:
Try these style tips to create an eye catching display piece.

• Consider pairing with a 13cm Shing Plinth Planter for a sophisticated tabletop display.
• Pair with a Pluto Planter in a 13cm for something classic
• Go quirky with a Boob Planter- Black Clay or  Boob Planter - Terracotta - 13cm

CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Follow these tips to keep your plant happy and healthy.

• Water: Wait until the roots turn silver, then soak your plant in room temperature water for 15–20 minutes, avoiding wetting the leaves, and drain well. If you get water in your crown (middle of the leaves), dab it dry with a tissue. Avoid allowing it to sit in excess water after draining.
• Light: medium-to-bright indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Humidity: Average to high humidity is ideal.
• Fertiliser: Feed with a weak solution of a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks from spring through summer. Alternatively, use an orchid fertiliser, following the package instructions.