Phalaenopsis singuliflora
Phalaenopsis singuliflora · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant phalaenopsis singuliflora: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fleshy and dark green
- Blooming
- Winter and spring (December to April)
- Adult size
- 4 to 10 inches tall, compact habit
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Tropical, frost-sensitive (min. 59°F)
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand)
- Type of cultivation
- Epiphytic, requires specialized substrate
Care
Watering
Water moderately once or twice a week, letting the substrate dry slightly between waterings. Stagnant water causes root rot. Use non-calcareous and tepid water if possible.
Light Exposure
Place your plant in indirect, filtered light, away from direct sun rays. A well-lit east or west-facing window is ideal for promoting blooming.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove faded flowers to encourage branching. Eliminate dead or diseased leaves and roots with a clean tool. Avoid pruning healthy stems.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced liquid fertilizer or specialized orchid fertilizer every 15 to 20 days during the growing season. Reduce fertilization in winter and after flowering.
Substrate and Repotting
Use an aerated orchid-specific mix (fine bark, charcoal, sphagnum moss). Repot every 2 to 3 years, ideally after flowering, in an aerated pot.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for mealybugs and spider mites in dry air. Root rot is the main issue if conditions are too humid. Ensure good air circulation around your plant.
Did you know?
Phalaenopsis singuliflora gets its name from the Greek 'phalaina' (moth) and 'opsis' (appearance), as its flowers resemble moths in flight. The 'singuliflora' species typically produces a single remarkably large flower, making it highly prized by miniature orchid collectors.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese ground orchidBletilla striata
- Moth orchidPhalaenopsis amabilis
- Spotted orchidDactylorhiza maculata
- Lesser twaybladeNeottia ovata
- Broad-leaved helleborineEpipactis helleborine
- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.