Moth Orchid Plant

Phalaenopsis amabilis is an epiphytic orchid with fleshy evergreen leaves and branched racemes of long-lasting white flowers, often with a yellow lip and red throat. It grows naturally in wet tropical regions, so in temperate climates it is best treated as an indoor or greenhouse orchid. ## Plant Profile Kew accepts this species from Malesia to northeastern Australia. The Royal Horticultural Society describes a mature plant about 0.5–1 m tall and 0.1–0.5 m wide, with flowering from autumn to early spring. Its original white flowers are scented and can reach about 10 cm across. [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/650501-1) · [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/119644/phalaenopsis-amabilis/details) ## Growing Conditions Give it bright, indirect light and warm, humid air with gentle movement. Grow it in an open, porous bark-based orchid mix. Water thoroughly, then let the mix approach dryness before watering again; keep water from sitting in the crown. The American Orchid Society gives genus-level guidance of nights above 60°F and daytime temperatures around 75–85°F, with airflow especially important in humid conditions. [American Orchid Society care sheet](https://www.aos.org/orchid-care/care-sheets/phalaenopsis-culture-sheet) ## Maintenance After flowering, cut a spent stem back to a lower node if you want to encourage another flower spike. Repot in fresh porous medium when the mix starts to break down, usually every one to three years.