Also known as Anggrék Bulan · Butterfly Orchid · Mariposa Orchid
Phalaenopsis amabilis, the Moth Orchid, is a popular epiphytic orchid with striking, long-lasting white flowers resembling moths in flight.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect
75% intensity
Bright, filtered light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water when potting medium is almost dry, allow full drainage.
Orchid bark mix, sphagnum moss, or a combination thereof.
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Daytime: 21-29°C. Nighttime: 16-18°C. A slight drop in night temperature can encourage blooming.
Moderate
50% intensity
Diluted orchid fertilizer during active growth, reduce in dormancy.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry. Allow excess water to drain completely. Avoid letting the roots sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
Overwatering is a common mistake; it's better to err on the side of underwatering slightly.
Remove spent flower spikes by cutting them back to the base or just above a node. This encourages reblooming. Dead or yellowing leaves should also be trimmed off with clean shears.
Sterilize tools between cuts to prevent disease.
Phalaenopsis orchids are primarily propagated vegetatively. Keikis (baby plants) can sometimes form on old flower spikes.
Once a keiki has developed roots, it can be carefully separated and potted into its own orchid mix.
Repot your Moth Orchid every 1-2 years or when the potting medium begins to break down. Use a well-draining orchid mix, typically bark-based. Repot after flowering when new root growth is evident.
Be gentle with the roots.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis)
Where Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Phalaenopsis |
| Species | Phalaenopsis amabilis |
Similar in genus Phalaenopsis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
