Plant Primer: Moth orchid

Height: 3 to 8 inches

Spread: 4 to 15 inches

Zone: 11

Origin: Southeast Asia

Light: Bright low light

Phalaenopsis, which probably is among the most recognizable orchids, is a good choice for the home gardener.

Phalaenopsis orchids are monopodial, meaning that growth occurs from the top of one stem. Its medium green leaves are large, thick and flat. This plant is epiphytic: In its natural habitat, Phalaenopsis would grow on other plants and rocks rather than in the soil, using its roots to adhere to the object.

The succulent roots hold water but are not a true water storage system for the plant.

Phalaenopsis’ common name of moth orchid refers to the flower petals’ resemblance to moth wings. Its flowers come in shades of white, lavender, pink and yellow; some have stripes and spots.

Phalaenopsis orchids are easy to care for at home and bloom again easily. They do best in plastic pots to keep the soil or bark moist. Humidity can be added by using a pebble tray, but do not let the plant pot sit in water.

Grow Phalaenopsis on an east-facing windowsill. A drop in the outdoor temperature in the fall (to 55 degrees is sufficient) will initiate the growth of a flower spike.

Phalaenopsis in its many colors can be seen throughout Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens as part of the annual exhibition of orchids.

— Barbara Arnold, Franklin Park Conservatory