Phalaenopsis aphrodite
Also known as: Aphrodite's Phalaenopsis or Phalaenopsis amabilis var. aphrodite Phalaenopsis aphrodite ssp. aphrodite Phalaenopsis aphrodite ssp. formosana Phalaenopsis aphrodite h.v. formosana in the subfamily: Epidendroideae
General Information
Aphrodite's Phalaenopsis is a monopodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae. It is named after the Goddess of Fertility.
Plant Description
Monopodial. Each new growth has numerous arching elliptic, oblong shaped leaves that grow to 6-38cm long
Flowers
Numerous long lasting blossoms appear
Substrate(s)
- Bark
- Charcoal
- Spaghnum Moss
- Perlite
Climate
Grows at low to high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 97mm to 411mm per day, heaviest in August and lightest in April. Humidity ranges from 81% to 84%, highest in June and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 19C to 31C, highest in May (26C to 31C) and lowest in January (19C to 24C).
Watering
These orchids prefer a constant supply of moisture, with a slight drying out between waterings. Saucers can be placed under pots to retain moisture during hot weather, however the saucers should be removed or let to dry every 1-2 weeks to prevent rot. Keep an eye on the plant especially in hot weather and look for cues of under/overwatering and adjust accordingly.
Fertiliser
These orchids do not need to be regularly fertilised and roots may be sensitive to salt build-up, dying back and therefore impairing the plants growth or even killing it.
If fertilising, use half to quarter of the recommended amount of fertiliser. If they receive fertiliser as part of a collection, be sure to flush out the pots regularly with fresh water and monitor the roots by checking how much resistance is given by the plant when nudged in its pot or mount. If the plant becomes wobbly or loose, repot in fresh mix or rinse the media/mount thoroughly and do not fertilise for at least 3 months.
Apply fertiliser regularly at half strength year round.Potting
Repotting is best done annually.
