Phalaenopsis philippinensis

A captivating orchid species endemic to Luzon Island, Philippines, Phalaenopsis philippinensis thrives as a pendent epiphyte in the rainforests of the Sierra Madre range—typically at elevations up to 1200 m.

Features:

• Leaves: Oblong-elliptic to oblanceolate; dark green with silvery marbling on the upper surface and deep purple underneath.

• Inflorescence: Arching to pendent panicles up to 120 cm long, bearing upwards of 100 delicate, nearly membranous flowers.

• Flowers: White with a pale pink tint; lateral sepals have dark red spots; lip is white with yellow side lobes striped in red.

• Bloom Behavior: Flowers tend to open simultaneously, creating a spectacular display.

Care Tips:

• Light:
  Prefers bright, filtered light around 10,000–12,000 lux. Avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn. Ideal window positions include east, southeast, or west—with seasonal adjustments: place in east-facing windows from March to October and in south or west from October to March.

• Temperature:
  Thrives in warm conditions.

  • Summer: Day ~31–33 °C (≈88–92 °F), Night ~21–23 °C (≈70–73 °F), achieving a 9–10 °C drop.

  • Winter: Day ~28–31 °C, Night ~19–21 °C.

• Humidity:
  Lives best in very high humidity—85% to 90%. Ensure strong air circulation to prevent fungal issues in this moist environment.

• Watering:
  Water about once a week, keeping the growing medium consistently moist but not soggy. Watering frequency may vary based on heat and light intensity.

• Fertilization:
  Use balanced orchid fertilizer at ¼–½ strength every 1–2 weeks during the active growing season. Reduce or eliminate feeding during the rest period.

• Rest Period:
  Implement a winter rest of about 6 weeks with reduced watering—approximately once every 2–3 weeks—and maintain constant, light moisture. Increasing light during this rest helps induce blooming.