Orchids are very popular plants among gardening lovers, but we already know that they can be somewhat delicate to care for. However, not all varieties are the same. The phalaenopsis schilleriana It is somewhat more resistant and can be a good choice for those who want to start caring for this variety of plants.
Also known as butterfly orchid, alevilla or mouth orchid, for its exotic-looking flowers. If you like it and want to have it at home or in the office to brighten your day, pay attention to its characteristics and the care it needs.
The origin and main characteristics of phalaenopsis schilleriana
There are many species within the Orchidaceae family, but the butterfly orchid is one of the most popular. Has his origin in the Philippines and in some regions of Australia, where it can grow in humid and mountainous areas.
Since it is a epiphytic variety, does not need to be anchored to the ground. The roots use other trees or plants to cling to them and grow from there, but without obtaining the nutrients from the plant that acts as their “base.” This causes their roots are especially strong and that they have the ability to carry out photosynthesis. In fact, if you check its roots, you will notice that they are green, something that is not common in other plants.
Regarding the general appearance of the plant, we can highlight:
- Leaves. This orchid has thick, fleshy, dark green leaves. They grow in an area close to the roots, but they are not very numerous. Regarding their size, they can reach up to 50 cm in length and their width is around 10 cm.
- Flowers. Without a doubt, the most spectacular thing about phalaenopsis schilleriana are its flowers. Each flower is composed of several petals and sepals, with a central lip that reminds us of a small sac, and which is the focal point of the flower, since it usually has a contrasting color with the rest.
- Growth habit. We are dealing with a monopodial plant, which implies that it grows vertically from a single point. A long stem develops from the base where the leaves are and often needs to be staked so that it can remain erect.
- Size. This orchid has a very moderate size, it usually does not exceed 30-45 cm in length, which makes it ideal for growing in pots and indoors.
Basic care of phalaenopsis schilleriana
This is not a variety that we have to plant deep in the substrate like we do with other plants, and that makes it your care is a little different to which we are accustomed to giving to other plant species that we have at home.
Light and location
The butterfly orchid prefers a location where receive several hours of bright, but not direct, light, every day. The behavior of the plant will tell you if it is receiving the necessary light. If you see that the leaves begin to show damage, it is because the sun's rays are reaching them with a high incidence.
A good location for a potted phalaenopsis schilleriana is near a window that faces east or west, and better if the light is filtered through a curtain.
Temperature
Due to its origin, you will have already realized that this is a plant that he likes warm temperatures. It grows well in places where the temperature range is between 18º and 27ºC. At night, it is recommended Do not leave the pot in a place whose temperature drops below 16ºC.
This is a variety that does not tolerate the cold well at all, so it is important to give it good protection.
What it does require is a little moisture. To provide it, you can place a tray with some pebbles and a little water nearby. As the water evaporates, it will provide the plant with the humidity it needs.
Watering phalaenopsis schilleriana
Watering orchids must be especially delicate. You have to provide water in moderation, letting the substrate dry slightly between waterings. In practice, this means, in most cases, water once a week.
What is essential is that the pot has drainage holes, to ensure that the roots will not become waterlogged.
Substrate and compost
These plants require a very light planting medium with exceptional drainage capacity. The simplest thing in this case is to buy specific substrate for orchids, which has good drainage and aeration qualities.
During the active growing season, which runs from spring to fall, it is recommended that you add a little fertilizer to the plant. You can do it through a specific fertilizer and always applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning this orchid
One of the advantages of phalaenopsis schilleriana is that does not need pruning. Wilted flowers and leaves fall off naturally, and it is good to leave them right where they have fallen, because this way they provide nutrients to the roots.
Transplanting this variety
Phalaenopsis schilleriana requires a container in which its roots are more or less compacted, so the pot should not be much larger than the diameter of the roots.
Furthermore, in these cases it is usually chosen to clear plastic pots, since this way the roots can receive light and carry out photosynthesis, helping the plant to grow stronger and healthier.
You should only approach the transplant during the vegetative rest season, that is, during the winter months. Try not to squeeze the roots too much, let the plant adapt to its new environment in as natural a way as possible.
After changing the pot, control the watering closely so as not to overdo it, do not apply fertilizer for a few weeks, and try to protect the plant from very intense lights.
With proper care and a lot of love from you, the phalaenopsis schilleriana will look spectacular. Do you dare to give it a try now?
