PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect sunlight; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn
Watering
Water thoroughly when the orchid potting medium is nearly dry; discard excess water from saucers to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives at 18–27°C; night temperatures 10–15°C lower than daytime to trigger blooming
Characteristics
- Pseudobulb: Fleshy cylindrical structure that stores water and nutrients
- Leaf: Single leathery, oblong dark green leaf per pseudobulb
- Flower: Large ruffled blooms (10–15 cm wide) in pink, purple, or white; sweetly fragrant
- Root: Thick silvery aerial roots for moisture and nutrient uptake
Care Guide
Watering
Keep potting medium slightly moist; mist aerial roots to boost humidity
Fertilization
Diluted balanced orchid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows; use fertilizer diluted to half strength to avoid salt buildup
Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 with water before applying to roots; avoid direct contact with leavesPruning
- Trim spent flower spikes at the base to redirect energy to pseudobulb growth
- Remove dead or yellowing leaves and damaged aerial roots during repotting
- Repot every 2–3 years in spring; gently untangle roots to avoid damage
- Cut away soft, rotting pseudobulbs to prevent fungal or bacterial spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes luxury, beauty, and admiration; historically used in wedding corsages
Usage: Ornamental potted plant, cut flower for floral arrangements
