Phalaenopsis, Orchid
Phalaenopsis is a genus of epiphytic orchids in the family Orchidaceae, comprising about 60 species. The genus is native throughout southeast Asia, and is one of the most popular orchids. Phalaenopsis is sometimes known as Moth orchids. It is abbreviated as Phal in horticultural trade. Phalaenopsis does not produce pseudobulbs or rhizomes. It shows a monopodial growth habit. It has an erect growing stem producing one or two alternate, thick, fleshy, elliptical leaves a year from the top, replacing the older, basal leaves. A healthy plant can have as many as ten or more leaves. The raceme or panicle inflorescence appears from the stem between the leaves, and can last for several weeks. The species of Phalaenopsis can be classified into two groups. A group with up to a meter long, branched inflorescence, and large, almost round flowers of rose or white colors. The other group produces shorter stems and less rounded, waxy flowers with more striking colors. Hybrids in all colors and variations have been produced via intensive cross-fertilization method. They are more adaptable to artificial conditions. Phalaenopsis requires warm temperatures (20 to 35 °C), high humidity (60-70%) and low light of 12,000 to 20,000 lux.  Phalaenopsis philippinensis Author: Javier martin (Creative Commons Attribution ShareAlike 3.0-unported) | ||
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