History of Phalaenopsis

Named after the Greek "phalaena" (moth) and "opsis" (looks like), Phalaenopsis is often called the "Moth Orchid" for its resemblance to a moth in flight. One of the most popular orchids, Phalaenopsis is native to regions throughout Southeast Asia, from the Himalayan Mountains to the Philippines and areas in northern Australia.

In the wild, Phalaenopsis grows below canopies of moist and humid lowland forests where they are protected from direct sunlight. Some Phalaenopsis have adapted to thrive in areas that are seasonally cool and dry.

Phalaenopsis are monopidial plants. Spikes extend upwards from a base of flat, glossy, spreading leaves. There are over sixty species of Phalaenopsis, including many natural hybrids.