Phalaenopsis aphrodite /ˈæ.fɹəʊ.daɪt/
Common name: Aphrodite's phalaenopsis · Moth orchid
Phalaenopsis aphrodite is an epiphytic orchid native to the Philippines and Taiwan, where it grows on tree trunks and branches in humid forests. It bears arching spikes of white flowers with a yellow-and-red-marked lip, blooming mainly in spring. It is a major ancestor of modern hybrid moth orchids, contributing vigor, branching flower spikes, and free-flowering habit. In Taiwan it grows in the wild and is sometimes called the Taiwanese moth orchid.
Care summary
Sun
Bright filtered light; shade from harsh midday sun
Water
Keep evenly moist; slight drying between waterings
Soil
Medium-grade fir bark or sphagnum orchid mix
Hardiness
Zones 10–12 (tender, grow indoors elsewhere)
Mature height
About 30–60 cm (1–2 ft) including flower spike
Pet safe
Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Moderate
Propagation
Propagate from keikis that occasionally develop on old flower spikes; once the plantlet has roots a few centimeters long, detach it and pot it in fine orchid bark or sphagnum moss. Sections of an old flower spike laid on moist sphagnum can also be coaxed to produce plantlets, though seed and meristem culture are left to laboratories.
Fun facts
- Its species name honors Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty.
- It grows wild in Taiwan's southern forests, including on Orchid Island (Lanyu).
- A single well-grown plant can carry dozens of flowers on branching spikes.
- Together with P. amabilis it is a key parent behind most white hybrid moth orchids.