Orchid

Orchids form one of the largest plant families on Earth, but the moth orchid (Phalaenopsis) is by far the most common houseplant orchid, sold widely for its elegant, weeks-long flowers.

Most are epiphytes, growing naturally on tree branches rather than in soil, with thick aerial roots that absorb moisture from humid air.

With broad blooms resembling moths in flight, they come in white, pink, purple, yellow, and spotted patterns, making them a favorite gift and decor plant.

Recognize a moth orchid by:

• Flowers: Flat, rounded, moth-like blooms in arching sprays, often lasting 2-4 months.
• Leaves: A few thick, leathery, oval leaves growing in a low rosette, with no main stem.
• Roots: Fleshy, silvery-green aerial roots that often spill over the pot rim.
• Growth habit: Monopodial, growing upward from a single point rather than spreading.
• Flower spike: A slender arching stem (spike) rising from between the leaves.

Mimic an orchid's airy, tropical roots and it will thrive.

• Light: Bright indirect light; an east window is ideal. Avoid harsh direct sun.
• Water: Water about weekly, drenching then draining fully; let roots approach dryness between waterings. Never let the pot sit in water.
• Medium: Grow in bark or sphagnum-based orchid mix, not regular potting soil, for airflow.
• Temperature: Comfortable indoor temps of 65-80 degrees F; a brief night-time drop can trigger reblooming.
• Feeding: Dilute orchid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during active growth.
• Propagation: Sometimes produces plantlets (keikis) on spikes that can be potted up.

Moth orchids are native to the warm, humid lowland forests of Southeast Asia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and northern Australia, where they grow attached to tree trunks and branches.

In the wild they enjoy filtered light, high humidity, and constant air movement. As houseplants they are grown worldwide indoors, and in tropical climates they can be mounted on trees or grown in shade houses.