What is the common name for Phalaenopsis Amabilis?
Phalaenopsis amabilis, commonly known as the moon orchid or moth orchid in India and as anggrek bulan in Indonesia, is a species of flowering plant in the orchid family Orchidaceae, native to the East Indies and Australia, and widely cultivated as a decorative houseplant. One of the most popular orchid species is the Phalaenopsis. They are known for their elegant appearance thanks to the striking flowers that resemble a flying butterfly. This is why they are also called butterfly orchids. They have large, flat flowers with wide petals and a characteristic lip.Cattleya. Cattleya, “QUEEN OF ALL ORCHIDS” typically features showy, fragrant flowers that come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and color combinations commonly known as corsage orchid.
How big does Phalaenopsis amabilis get?
Plant Type and Habit: Phalaenopsis amabilis is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on other plants for physical support but is not parasitic. It absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air and rain. Size: The plant typically reaches up to 24-40 inches (60-100 cm) in height. It is vitally important that your orchid is getting the correct amount of sunlight. If it does not, it cannot make enough carbohydrates to perform normal plant maintenance activities, such as growth, and to bloom.Best conditions for phalaenopsis orchids make sure you place your orchid somewhere with filtered sunlight – or artificial light, if needed – and ideally in a spot where the air isn’t too dry (orchids make great additions to light and bright bathrooms).Native to India, China, and Southeast Asia — this orchid with leafy stems and long-lasting flowers does best in a bright, warm, humid spot. Indoors, the Phalaenopsis will typically bloom about once a year, for up to three months. After a blooming cycle, the flowers will wilt and fall off.If cared for properly, Phalaenopsis orchids live for 15 to 20 years in your home.Phalaenopsis orchids phalaenopsis need six to eight hours of indirect sunlight during the growing season. Four to six hours is sufficient during winter months. Place these orchids near an east or south-facing window or filter direct light with a sheer curtain, blind, or shade.
How do I get my Phalaenopsis amabilis to rebloom?
Fertilizer. Fertilizing regularly can help you increase the chances of your Phalaenopsis orchid blooming in the second year and beyond. The amount of fertilizer you use will depend on the season – flowering or resting. Plants will typically bloom the second time in the spring to early summer. If properly cared for, they can bloom twice a year for 15-20 years, and in the case of phalaenopsis orchids, their blooms typically last from two to three months. After the initial bloom has passed, the plants go into a resting phase.Myth #2: Watering Orchids With Ice Cubes Is Unnatural Many of these orchids are found in the rainforest, where they cling to trees and capture the water that falls from their leaves. Watering orchids with ice cubes mimics the slow drip of water from leaves in tropical climates where orchids grow.The best way to water an orchid is to water from the top of the pot and use a potting media that provides good drainage. While accounting for variations in temperature and humidity, most orchids in 5- to 6-inch pots require 1/4 cup of water each week or three ice cubes.Watering Orchids Based on Their Roots Velamen color indicates water needs: dry velamen is white or silvery; freshly watered velamen is green or mottled. Orchids can be watered from the top or bottom. Mounted plants will need more water than unmounted plants.Orchids need sufficient light to bloom but should not be exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn. Insufficient light is one of the most common reasons orchids fail to flower.