Phalaenopsis orchid, Moth orchid

(Phalaenopsis amabalis)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Flowers are 2-1/2" across, with petals rounded, and 3 lobed lip often of contrasting color.

COLORS:

White, Yellow, Light Green, Rose

AVAILABILITY:

Year Round

FRAGRANT?

No

USES IN ARRANGEMENT:

Focal point

SELECTION GUIDE:

Look for fully developed flowers with no bruised or brown areas.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Avoid getting water on petals.

RECOMMENDED FOR HOME CULTURE?

Yes

HOME CULTURE NOTES:

Popular in hobby greenhouse. Minimum temperature should be no lower than 65 degrees F.

PROPOGATION:

Division

CARE:

Before arranging, recut stems, remove foliage that will be under water & put in mix of warm water & floral preservative for a few hours or overnight. Place arrangement away from direct sunlight, heat vents, air conditioners and drafts. Water and remove dying blooms and foliage daily. To prolong vase life, every 4 - 5 days, recut stems & clean container thoroughly. Rearrange remaining flowers, adding mixture of warm water & floral preservative to your "new" arrangement. Floral preservative is recommended and is available commercially.

NOTES:

These orchids are popular as corsages and used in wedding bouquets.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

Visit Virginia Cooperative Extension