Moth orchid
Phalaenopsis amabilisBroad leathery leaves and aerial roots support arching flower stems.
Find its rhythm
Light
Bright filtered light
Water
Check roots and bark before watering; drain completely and keep water out of the crown. Start with a soil check every 7 days and adjust for your conditions.
Care through the seasons
Soil & drainage
Use an open orchid bark mix rather than ordinary garden soil.
Climate
Provide bright filtered light, gentle airflow and protection from cold drafts.
Seasonal care
As growth slows, check moisture before watering; the same calendar interval may be too frequent.
Feeding
Feed only during active growth, following the product label. Pause if roots are stressed.
Pruning
Remove dead flower stems with clean tools; preserve healthy aerial roots.
Propagation
Offsets
Hardiness
10a, 10b, 11a, 11b
Watch for
Persistent wet soil · Leaf pests · Light stress
Care-group starting guidance; adapt to your cultivar and local climate.
Pet & child safety
Not in the ASPCA list — treat it as unsafe until you know more
Not in the California Poison Control or poison.org plant lists — treat it as unsafe until you know more
Keep plants out of reach of children and pets. Never eat a plant based on an app.
If any is eaten: Call your local poison control centre or vet. In the US: Poison Control 1-800-222-1222; ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply).
Sources checked 10 Nov 2026. Lists change, so check the source before relying on it.