Phalaenopsis schilleriana is an orchid species native to the Philippines that’s known for its gorgeous patterned leaves and delicate flowers.
This orchid is a favorite among collectors because it’s beautiful and its care requirements are fairly easy for beginners to maintain.
This article will give you a crash course on how to identify, care for, and grow Phalaenopsis schilleriana orchids.
Identifying Phalaenopsis schilleriana
Phalaenopsis schilleriana is a beautiful orchid with distinctive foliage and flowers. Here’s how to identify it:
Foliage Characteristics
The leaves of Phalaenopsis schilleriana are large and dark green, with eye-catching grayish-white marbling and purple spots. They can grow to be 6 to 18 inches long and are relatively thick and leathery. The marbled pattern is a key identifier.
Floral Characteristics
The flowers are showy and fragrant, ranging in color from white and pale pink to lilac-pink or dark pink-purple. Each flower is typically about 3 to 3.5 inches in diameter.
Each inflorescence (flower stalk) can hold anywhere from 3 to 250 flowers, and the inflorescence itself can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in length.
Light requirements
If you want your Phalaenopsis schilleriana to thrive, give it bright, indirect light in the range of 10000-12000 lux. Morning light is great, but you should always shield the plant from direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
These orchids do best with about 12-14 hours of light each day. You may need to use grow lights to achieve this, depending on where you live.
Temperature and humidity
Like most orchids, Phalaenopsis schilleriana thrives within a relatively narrow band of temperatures and humidity.
Temperature
In summer, these orchids enjoy daytime temperatures of 85 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit (29 to 33 degrees Celsius), with nighttime temps between 70 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 23 degrees Celsius). The ideal daily temperature difference is between 13 and 16 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 9 degrees Celsius).
During the winter months, daytime temperatures of 84 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit (29 to 31 degrees Celsius) are fine, with nighttime temperatures dipping to between 66 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (19 to 21 degrees Celsius). The ideal daily temperature difference is between 14 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit (8 to 11 degrees Celsius).
Humidity
These orchids like an average humidity of 80% during warm weather. If the air in your home is too dry, use a humidifier or set the plant on a humidity tray.
Growing medium, watering, and fertilizing
Like many orchids, Phalaenopsis schilleriana isn’t too picky about its growing conditions, as long as you keep a few things in mind.
Substrate and repotting
These orchids do well mounted on a tree trunk or branch, or nestled in a slatted basket. If you’re using a pot, choose bark with a grain size of about 1/2 inch (12-16mm).
Repot your Phalaenopsis schilleriana every year or two, or whenever the growing medium starts to break down. Spring or early summer is the best time to repot.
Watering
During the growing season, keep the bark constantly moist. Between waterings, let it dry out slightly.
When you water, give the plant a good soaking, and let the excess water drain away.
Fertilizing
Use 1/4 to 1/2 the recommended dose of orchid fertilizer every week or two during the growing season.
Water the plant before you fertilize, so the fertilizer doesn’t come into direct contact with dry roots.
Rest period
Like many orchids, Phalaenopsis schilleriana needs a rest in the winter to trigger blooming. During this time, usually two to three months, you’ll want to make some adjustments to its care routine.
- Stop fertilizing it or reduce the amount you use.
- Water it less often.
- You may also need to adjust the amount of light it receives.
The Bottom Line
Remember, providing the right light, temperature, humidity, water, and fertilizer is essential for keeping your Phalaenopsis schilleriana healthy and encouraging it to bloom. With the right care, this beautiful orchid can thrive and bring a touch of elegance to your home or collection for years to come.