The Essential Guide To The Moth Orchid
Botanical Name: Phalaenopsis
Common Name: Moth Orchid
General Knowledge: The Moth Orchid, known for its striking resemblance to a fluttering moth, originates from the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and Australia. It is widely cultivated for its long-lasting and exotic flowers, which make it a popular indoor plant and a stunning feature in floral arrangements. A fun fact about the moth orchid is that it can bloom multiple times a year with the right care, often gracing interiors with its beauty for months on end.
Colour Range: Predominantly white with variations including purple/pink centres, green/yellow centres, rust-red, pink stripe, lilac-pink, lilac, mauve with either yellow or purple centres, and creamy lime-green.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Moth Orchids are available year-round. They are most prolific during spring and summer, but with controlled greenhouse conditions, they are accessible in every season.
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Given their year-round availability, Moth Orchids are a versatile choice for weddings and events in Australia across all seasons.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes, Moth Orchids are commercially grown in Australia, and there are several nurseries and orchid growers.
Imported into Australia: Phalaenopsis orchids can also be imported into Australia under specified biosecurity conditions.
Buying Tips: Look for a healthy main orchid stem with firm, green leaves and no discolouration or spotting. Examine the roots, healthy roots should be light green when dry, dark green when wet, and have a shiny green tip. It's advisable to buy orchids that are flowering or about to flower, especially for beginners.
Design Tips and Advice: The Moth Orchid serves as a focal point in design. It can be arranged on its stems for a modern look. When used in wedding bouquets, it requires special attention and careful handling to prevent damage.
Flower Maturity: For a longer vase life, choose Moth Orchids that are just starting to open.
Expected Vase Life: This depends on many factors such as the type of orchid and how it is cared for. However, they will typically last between 7-10 days.
Typical Stem Length: Ranging from 40 cm to 60 cm.
Typical Bunch Size: Orchids can be sold in vials or have up to 10 blooms on a single stem.
Floral Preservatives: Use a floral preservative that is specifically formulated for orchids or tropical flowers to extend the vase life.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Orchids are sensitive to ethylene gas which can cause premature wilting, so keep them away from fruits and vegetables that emit ethylene.
Temperature Requirements: Moth Orchids thrive in temperatures ranging from 55-65 F (13-18 C).
Avoiding Potential Problems:
Ensure that your orchid is receiving adequate but indirect sunlight and avoid over-watering to prevent root rot.
Handle with utmost care to prevent bruising. It's also essential to avoid removing the pollen cap, as doing so will accelerate wilting.
Special Care Required for Orchids:
Orchids, in general, are renowned as exotic and romantic cut flowers, belonging to one of the largest plant families globally. Only select varieties have an ideal vase life as cut flowers.
Many cut orchids in Australian markets are imported, but species like Phalaenopsis are grown both locally and abroad. These orchids need frequent recutting, misting, and water changing.
For wedding bouquets, wiring techniques are advised, along with protection sprays to minimize moisture loss. It's also recommended to wrap the bouquet in plastic and keep it in a cool area until use.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Avoid cold storage. Ensure they're kept in a cool environment, but not chilled.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Regular misting, changing water, and the use of floral preservatives can help maintain the bloom's freshness.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Given their high sensitivity to ethylene, ensure they are stored away from fruits and vegetables, which can release this gas.