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Phalaenopsis amabilis grows as an epiphyte in Southeast Asian rainforests, clinging to tree bark rather than rooting in soil, which is exactly why the thick, silvery-green roots of a potted Moth Orchid are meant to be exposed to air and light in a chunky bark mix rather than buried in dense potting soil the way most houseplants are.
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Watch for strong direct sun at east / west windows.
| Best position | right by the window | about 1 m | about 2 m | about 4 m | 4 m or more |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| north | works well | works well | too dark | too dark | too dark |
| north-east | works well | works well | too dark | too dark | too dark |
| east | just about | works well | works well | too dark | too dark |
| south-east | too much direct sun | just about | just about | too dark | too dark |
| south | too much direct sun | too much direct sun | too much direct sun | too dark | too dark |
| south-west | too much direct sun | too much direct sun | just about | too dark | too dark |
| west | too much direct sun | too much direct sun | works well | too dark | too dark |
| north-west | too much direct sun | just about | too dark | too dark | too dark |
works well just about too dark too much direct sun
A rough guide based on window direction and typical daylight through the year. Window size, curtains and whatever stands outside matter just as much.
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Source: ASPCA
Cutting off the flower spike right down to the base as soon as blooms fade is often unnecessary; on a healthy plant, trimming the spike back to just above a node can prompt a secondary flush of flowers from that same spike within a couple of months.
Cut it back to just above a healthy node rather than removing it completely. This often produces a second round of flowers from the same spike. Cut it off at the base only if the spike has turned brown and dry.
That is completely normal. Healthy roots look silvery-grey when dry and turn bright green when wet. It is only a problem if the roots also feel mushy or hollow.
About once a week, and more often in the heat of summer. Water in the morning with tepid water, letting it run through the bark, then drain the pot completely. The bark should dry a little between waterings.
Give it more light and slightly cooler nights in autumn. An east-facing windowsill is ideal. Keep feeding regularly at a weak dose while it is growing leaves and roots.
About every two years, once the flowers have faded or when new leaves start to grow. Use fresh bark-based orchid mix, not potting compost.
Yes, the Moth Orchid is not toxic to cats or dogs.
On an east-facing windowsill, where it gets bright light without hot sun. A south or west window also works if it is well shaded.
