Phalaenopsis Flowers
Name : Phalaenopsis Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Phalaenopsis, (Phalaenopsis amabilis)
Phalaenopsis Description
Phalaenopsis is a genus of 60 species of extraordinarily beautiful flowering plants belonging to the Orchid Family Orchidaceae. Phalaenopsis varieties are among the most popular orchids in the trade. Abbreviated Phal in the horticultural trade, they are commonly known as Moth Orchids since the flowers are believed to resemble flying moths. Moreover, the botanical name Phalaenopsis comes from the Greek word 'phalaina', meaning 'moth'. Phalaenopsis are native throughout Southeast Asia from the Himalayan Mountains to the islands in the Philippines and northern Australia. Orchid Island of Taiwan has been named after this exquisite genus.
Phalaenopsis Orchids are exotic blossoms that grow on a single, arched stem. There is an average of 5 to 8 blossoms on a single plant. Average bloom size ranges from 3-5.5 inches across. Phalaenopsis are unique in that in some species, such as P. violacea, the flowers turn into green leaves after pollination. The petals and sepals don’t wilt and die as in normal flowers; instead they produce chloroplasts, turn green and fleshy and start to photosynthesize like leaves.
Moth orchids are available in shades of pinks, lavender, yellow and white; in both solid colours and mixes of stripes and spots.
Phals or Phalaenopsis are among the most popular orchids sold as potted plants due to the ease of propagation and flowering under artificial conditions. They also happen to be among the first tropical orchids in Victorian collections. Since the development of the hybrid variety Phalaenopsis Doris, it has become extremely easy to grow and flower this orchid in the home, provided some care is taken to supply them with required conditions.
Moth orchids require a humidity level of about 60-70% and appropriate light conditions in order to bloom and stay healthy. They prefer low, indirect light, and well-drained soil. The foliage appears yellow-green if the light is correct and dark green foliage indicates that the light is too low. Propagation of Moth Orchids is mainly done by vegetative methods, using stem cuttings. Exquisite blossoms are available all year round. When planted at home, the Moth Orchids bloom in their full glory in late winter and spring and can last for up to three months.
Phals or Moth Orchids are excellent potted plants that add a touch of the exotic to their surroundings. Potted orchids are the perfect gift to a loved one and they perfectly convey the magnificence of your feelings for the recipient. They are the most coveted cut flower and are a popular choice for weddings, especially with tropical themes. The Moth orchids come in a variety of colours, ranging from milky white to darker, bolder hues that captivate the beholder. Phalaenopsis orchids with their elegance and simplicity are perfect focal points for any occasion, and look great in fresh flower arrangements and bridal bouquets. Vase life for the Moth Orchids is about 3-5 days.
Phalaenopsis Meaning
Orchid is the 14th wedding anniversary flower, and the elegant Moth orchid signifies the meanings Magnificence, Love, Rare and Delicate Beauty, Refinement, Beautiful Lady, Luxury and Strength. Orchids are the Chinese symbol for Many Children, Thoughtful, Maturity, or Charm.
Pink Orchids convey the meaning of Pure Affection.
Phalaenopsis Mythology
Phalaenopsis is called Cooktown Orchid in Queensland and was proclaimed as the floral emblem of Queensland in 1959. Phalaenopsis is also one of the three national flowers of Indonesia.
In ancient Greece, orchids were connected with virility and it was believed that if the father of the unborn child ate large, new orchid tubers, the baby would be a boy and if the mother ate small orchid tubers, it would be a girl.
