Phalaenopsis mysorensis

Also known as: The Mysore Phalaenopsis or Kingidium mysorense Kingidium niveum in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Karnataka - India

General Information

The Mysore Phalaenopsis is a monopodial warm growing orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to India.

Plant Description

Monopodial. Each new growth has numerous leaves that grow to 9-11cm long

Flowers

Numerous blossoms appear during Autumn

Blooming Season

• Autumn

Substrate(s)

• Bark

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 5mm to 170mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 55% to 81%, highest in November and lowest in March. Temperature ranges from 14C to 34C, highest in April (21C to 34C) and lowest in January (14C to 26C).

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 in Spring.