Paraphalaenopsis serpentilingua
Also known as: The Snake Tongue Paraphalaenopsis or Phalaenopsis thorntonii Paraphalaenopsis denevei var. alba Phalaenopsis simonsei Paraphalaenopsis thorntonii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
The Snake Tongue Paraphalaenopsis is a monopodial hot growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. The name refers to the split lip.
Plant Description
Monopodial. Grows to 33cm. Each new growth has numerous terete shaped leaves that grow to 0.7-30cm long. The plant forms pendant or arching growths
Flowers
Numerous fragrant blossoms appear
Fragrance
The orchid is fragrant.
Substrate(s)
- Coarse
- Charcoal
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
- IsFragrant
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 165mm to 389mm per day, heaviest in November and lightest in July. Humidity ranges from 79% to 87%, highest in October and lowest in July. Temperature ranges from 20C to 29C, highest in May (21C to 29C) and lowest in January (20C to 27C).
Watering
These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.
Fertiliser
Apply liquid based fertiliser per recommended directions. They can benefit from a high phosphate fertiliser leading up to flowering season, followed by a high nitrogen fertiliser when new growth appears, and a balanced fertiliser in other times. These orchids can also tolerate slow release fertiliser applied 1-2 pellets per cup (250ml) of media.
Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round. Use a high Nitrogen fertiliser during Spring and Summer. Use a high Phosphorous fertiliser during Summer. Reduce fertiliser when plant is dormant.Potting
This plant does very well in baskets or suspended pots This plant does well mounted. Repotting is best done annually.
