Looks and Origins of Phalaenopsis Orchids
What is a Phalaenopsis Orchid?
Phalaenopsis orchids are the most popular and common type of orchid you see. These are monopodial plants that bloom with flowers generally between the months of December and May. These orchids are often called “moth” orchids because they resemble a large moth whose proper name is the “phalaenopsis” moth. There are many different hybrids of this plant that are made and sold.
What does a Phalaenopsis Orchid Look Like?
A phalaenopsis is a beautiful, unique, and simplistic plant. It is monopodial, meaning it grows from one stem, and shoots upwards like a tree. there are usually a couple of meaty leaves that grow along the stem. Towards the top it starts to curve horizontally, and this is usually the area where flowers bloom. Due to the fact that there are many different hybrids, there are many different colors and sizes of flower. The most popular ones are white and pink. The white phalaenopsis orchids have white petals except for the lip, which is often a bright vibrant shade of red, yellow, or orange depending on what color it was bred with. Some hybrids make small, cluster-like flowers, where others grow large, spaced flowers along the stem.
Where do Phalaenopsis Orchids Come From?
These orchids come from South-East Asia, where the weather is tropical year round. They flourish in tropical weather where the air is humid and the sun is shaded by vast canopies of jungle. They also grown in South America, where you can find phalaenopsis growing on large farms. From here they are shipped to the United States and sold in floral shops and stores all over the country. However, if you want to grow your own orchid, fear not – it is not as difficult as you may think it is to grow a moth orchid. They are picky plants, but if you steer them clear of direct sunlight, keep them in rooms with indirect sunlight, never let their roots dry completely, and keep them indoors, then you will most likely keep the orchid living and go on to have beautiful flowers.