Purple Moth Orchid

Moth Orchid Colors

• Traditionally, moth orchids can be found in various shades of pinks and white. However, thanks to a hybridizing revolution of phalaenopsis breeding, moth orchids are found in a wide variety of colors including yellow, shades of purple, and intermingles of different colors and patterns.

Growing Environment

• Moth orchids are a favorite houseplant because of their tolerance to a drier atmosphere than most other orchids prefer. Due to this drier indoor environment, your moth orchid will benefit from light, frequent misting.

Light Requirements

• Moth orchids are found in the filtered shade of the forest canopy and cannot tolerate direct light. They will thrive in north, east or west windows or a shaded south window. If your phalaenopsis turns yellow and becomes stunted, it is receiving too much light.

Potting Moth Orchids

• Phalaenopsis roots will most likely wander outside whatever container you put them in, and these aerial roots are best left that way. Moth orchids are epiphytes, which means they get their nutrients from the air. Therefore, using very porous mixtures like bark, charcoal and perlite are the moth orchid's preference.

Watering Moth Orchids

• Luke warm water is preferable to the moth orchid, as cold water will send this tropical native into shock and cause leaf damage. Only water and mist in the early morning so that the orchid has time to dry out before nighttime and avoid contracting any diseases. Water the medium thoroughly and do not water again until the medium is almost fully dry. Spray the aerial roots so they take in some water and mist the leaves.

Fertilizing Moth Orchids

• Moth orchids grown in the home need to be fertilized once a month with a weak, soluble, balanced fertilizer like 20-20-20. Using only a quarter or half of the recommended rate will produce healthy, flourishing plants.