BellinaMy Phalaenopsis gigantea: A Giant Among My Orchids
Among the orchids in my collection, my Phalaenopsis gigantea stands out as one of the largest, yet she is still technically a seedling. Despite her size, she continues to bloom periodically, making her growth journey all the more fascinating. I have shared her story before, as she has become one of the most interesting and treasured plants in my collection.
My journey with this remarkable orchid began at the Southern Ontario Orchid Society show and sale. A few years ago, I noticed a Phalaenopsis gigantea that had suffered from sun stress and bruising. Many people might have overlooked her, but I was immediately captivated. Her sun-bleached leaves and tired appearance only added to her charm. Because of her condition, the vendor was eager to sell, and I was able to bring her home for about $30, which is a remarkable deal for such a beautiful orchid.
From the start, I continued to give her a bit more sunlight than usual, placing her where she receives morning sun. Her leaves have taken on a light yellow hue from the sun exposure, but over the years, this approach has supported her consistent blooming and healthy growth. Although she is already massive in comparison to other orchids, she is still a baby in terms of her species. Mature Phalaenopsis gigantea leaves can reach up to 60 centimeters (around 24 inches), so I have a long journey ahead until she reaches full maturity.
She is potted in a large terra-cotta pot with gravel at the bottom to prevent tipping. Her medium consists mainly of orchid bark with chunks of perlite, light charcoal, and orchid-specific bark. I water her weekly, checking leaf firmness to adjust if needed, and I always include a small amount of fertilizer with every watering. As a warm-growing orchid, she pushes new leaves in spring and summer, although growth is slow, usually only one leaf per year. Patience is key with this species, but the reward is well worth it.
Finding the right Phalaenopsis gigantea can be a treat. Small seedlings are priced around $50, while mature plants can reach $200 or more. Timing and patience are essential, and the thrill of nurturing one from a tiny, sun-stressed seedling into a flourishing giant is unmatched.
Phalaenopsis gigantea Care Summary
Light: Bright indirect light with morning sun; avoid hot afternoon sun.
Water: Weekly, check leaf firmness first.
Medium: Large bark chunks, perlite, light charcoal; large, stable pot recommended.
Fertilizer: Diluted orchid fertilizer at every watering.
Growth: Slow, one leaf per year; warm-growing species.
Temperature: Prefers warm, stable indoor conditions.
This orchid is a must-have for enthusiasts who love a challenge and a show-stopping plant in their collection.
