Phalaenopsis Orchids are one of our best selling plants. They are also one of my favourite flowers which I always enjoy at home so I thought I would share some facts and advice on these beautiful Orchids.

Wikipedia references that the generic name means "Phalaen[a]-like" and is probably a reference to the genus Phalaena, the name given by Carl Linnaeus to a group of large moths; the flowers of some species supposedly resemble moths in flight. For this reason, the species are sometimes called Moth orchids.

They are native throughout southeast Asia from the Himalayan mountains to the islands of Polillo, Palawan and Zamboanga del Norte in the island of Mindanao in the Philippines and northern Australia.

We go to great lengths to source the very best premium varieties which are grown locally here in Victoria and occasionally overseas when it is low season (winter).

We stock 'Phalies' (as they are often affectionately referred to) in the beautiful white with a yellow nose and a hot pink variety all year round. They are are always in abundance in the warmer months and are a low maintenance, non fragrant orchid plant which can last up to 6 months and should re flower so they perfect for home or for a special gift.

To keep your orchid plant blooming at home I recommend the following:

1. Keep in mind that Phalaenopsis Orchids are an indoor plant which love warm sunny rooms with some humidity. A bathroom or kitchen with natural warm light is ideal.
2. Water the plant with a cup of fresh, clean water every 1-1.5 weeks. Make sure you keep the plant well drained as they do not like sitting in a puddle.
3. Keep the plant away from TV's (electrical devices), draft or cold areas or the house.
4. Once the plant has finished flowering (min of 3 months of flowers) and you notice the stem browning do not cut the stem short. Cut the stem with a clean knife or snips on a high join and the continue to look after the plant as normal. You can also feed it with orchid food while it is not flowering to keep it re-flower.
5. The orchid plant will need some time (up to 4months) to re-flower and might even grow new arms which will continue to grow and flower. All premium varieties will re-flower and grow even larger blooms as they get older. Yes, like a fine florist, they get better with age!

If you are interested in purchasing one of our stunning orchids or have any questions please feel free to contact one of the team here at Kate Hill Flowers.

x Kate