Phalaenopsis schilleriana
Phalaenopsis schilleriana is a pink moth orchid species prized for its silver‑mottled leaves. Endemic to the Philippines, it grows as an epiphyte in warm forests. Plants make long, arching sprays of many flowers in late winter to spring. Most flowers have a delicate rose fragrance noticeable at close range. It is a showy houseplant in bright, indirect light and warm, humid air with excellent drainage.
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 24 to 36 in (60 to 90 cm)
- Bloom window: late winter to spring
- Color & flower form: soft pink to rose; many flat flowers on long arching racemes; mottled leaves
- Fragrance: 2 noticeable
- 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, Philippines
- Cut‑flower notes: long arching stems; typical vase life about 8 to 14 days depending on season and source
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Decorative silver‑mottled leaves unlike most hybrids.
- Notable rose fragrance instead of little to no scent.
- Longer, more arching sprays than many hybrids.
- Pink flowers rather than standard white hybrid colors.
Strengths
- Leaves are attractive year‑round.
- Floriferous habit with many flowers per spike.
- Performs well in warm indoor conditions with filtered light.
Care in one minute
- Provide bright, indirect light; avoid hot direct sun to protect mottled leaves.
- Plant in a chunky bark mix with very good drainage; repot after bloom if the mix breaks down.
- Water when nearly dry; soak and drain; never leave water trapped at the leaf bases.
- Maintain 65 to 85 °F (18 to 29 °C) and 40 to 60 percent humidity; add airflow.
- Feed lightly during growth; flush salts monthly.
- Stake spikes early to guide long, arching sprays.
Watch‑outs
- Direct sun can scorch mottled leaves.
- Mealybugs and scale can mar foliage; inspect regularly.
- Keep water out of the crown to prevent rot.
Best uses (tags)
containers, houseplant, specimen, shade‑tolerant, fragrant
Provenance note
Described in the 1860s and native to the Philippines; noted by the American Orchid Society as bearing a delicate rose fragrance.
References
- American Orchid Society – Phalaenopsis schilleriana (species profile)
- Royal Horticultural Society – Phalaenopsis schilleriana details
- Kew Science POWO – Phalaenopsis schilleriana
- ASPCA – Phalaenopsis Orchid (non‑toxic to cats and dogs)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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