Sunday, January 27, 2013

 The picture above is a close-up of a spotted Phalaenopsis  I have had for about 2 years. It was in bloom most of the summer, and after it stopped blooming, the flower stalks remained green and a few weeks ago sprouted buds. Now it's in full bloom.
The flower stalk is about 2 1/2 feet tall, which makes it difficult to move and/or find a place where it fits. But I will gladly deal with that in exchange for it's long lasting and beautiful flowers.
Phalaenopsis are commonly called moth orchids because of the shape of the flowers, which  to some, must look wing-like.  I have grown various moth orchids through the years, but I've never had one that had so many blooms,. I have also had a hard time getting them to rebloom. I believe this must be inherent in the genetics of this plant. Maybe whatever makes all those spots also gives it reblooming characteristics.
Phals have been hybridized to a great degree and a myriad of different colors will meet you at every big box store. No wonder! The variety is huge, they are well suited for the house environment, and basically easy to grow. Plus, they will far outlast a cut bouquet of flowers. For the most part they have beautiful foliage that is well behaved, unlike it's cousin the Cattleya.
 Phals are epiphytes, and in their native Asia, many grow in colonies in trees.

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