Phalaenopsis stuartiana
Phalaenopsis stuartiana is a white moth orchid species with yellow and brown spotting on the lips and lateral sepals. Its leaves are attractively mottled, making the plant ornamental even when not in bloom. Native to Mindanao in the Philippines, it grows as an epiphyte in warm, humid forests. Plants produce heavily branched, arching sprays that can carry many long‑lasting flowers in winter to spring. Fragrance is usually faint. In North America it grows best indoors in bright, indirect light with warm temperatures and steady humidity.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species (Moth Orchid)
- Height × spread: 12 to 18 in × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm × 30 to 45 cm); flower spikes to about 36 in (90 cm)
- Bloom window: winter to spring
- Color & flower form: white with yellow and brown spotting; many starry flowers on branched sprays; mottled leaves
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: not hardy outdoors in most areas; greenhouse only in frost‑free zones 10 to 12; grow indoors elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, wild species, Mindanao Philippines
- Cut‑flower notes: branching stems produce a full look; typical vase life about 8 to 14 days depending on season and source
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Mottled leaves unlike most standard hybrids.
- Distinctive yellow‑spotted lip and lateral sepals instead of solid colors.
- Very branched sprays that carry many flowers.
- Faint fragrance rather than none.
Strengths
- Showy floral display with many buds per spike.
- Attractive foliage between blooms.
- Performs well in warm household conditions with filtered light.
Care in one minute
- Grow in bright, indirect light and protect mottled leaves from harsh sun.
- Use a bark‑based mix with excellent drainage; repot after flowering if media decomposes.
- Water thoroughly when nearly dry; drain fully; do not leave water in the crown.
- Maintain 65 to 85 °F (18 to 29 °C) with 40 to 60 percent humidity; provide airflow.
- Fertilize lightly during growth; flush salts monthly.
- Stake spikes early to direct the branching spray.
Watch‑outs
- Long spikes need staking for support.
- Mealybugs and scale can settle on leaves and spikes.
- Keep media fresh to avoid root decline.
Best uses (tags)
containers, houseplant, specimen, shade‑tolerant
Provenance note
A Philippine species from Mindanao with long, branching sprays; widely noted for faint fragrance and mottled foliage.
References
- Kew Science POWO – Phalaenopsis stuartiana
- American Orchid Society – Phalaenopsis: The Genus (culture overview)
- ASPCA – Phalaenopsis Orchid (non‑toxic to cats and dogs)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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