Description
- Common names:
- Moth Orchid, Moon Orchid, The Lovely Phalaenopsis, Orquídea Mariposa, Orquídea Luna
- Botanical name:
- Phalaenopsis amabilis
- Description:
- A graceful epiphytic orchid featuring elegant, long-lasting yellow blooms on arching stems. Perfect for adding exotic beauty to any space with minimal fuss.
Features
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Flowering, Upright Bush, Architectural, Rosette
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom, Office, Modern, Minimalist, Scandinavian, Elegant Centerpiece, Bright Window Sill
Care Guide
Care level:
Easy Care+
This orchid is surprisingly forgiving and ideal for beginners. It tolerates minor care variations and rewards you with spectacular, long-lasting blooms that can persist for several months.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or west-facing window with filtered sunlight, avoiding direct afternoon rays that can scorch leaves. Dark green leaves indicate insufficient light, while reddish tones suggest too much exposure.
Water:
Water When Dry+
Water thoroughly when the potting bark feels dry to the touch, typically every 7-10 days. Allow water to drain completely as orchids are highly susceptible to root rot from sitting in water.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels between 50-70%, mimicking its native tropical environment. Place on a pebble tray filled with water or use a humidifier to maintain ideal moisture levels.
Temperature:
Standard Room Temp+
Thrives in 18-27°C / 65-80°F during the day with a slight 5-8°F drop at night to encourage blooming. Protect from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where frost never occurs. In cooler zones, it can be placed outdoors in shaded areas during summer months but must be brought inside before temperatures drop below 15°C / 60°F.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once monthly during active growth and blooming periods. Reduce feeding during winter dormancy to every 6-8 weeks.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when the bark medium breaks down and becomes compacted, typically after blooming has finished. Choose a pot just slightly larger and use fresh orchid bark mix.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the broad leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. This also helps you inspect for pests like scale or mealybugs.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully separating keikis (baby plantlets) that occasionally develop on flower spikes or at the base. Wait until keikis have at least 2-3 roots before removing and potting separately.