Phalaenopsis sumatrana Korth. & Rchb. f. 1860 is an epiphtyic growing Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) species, native to the Malay peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo (Kalimantan) and the Philippines.

The genus name Phalaenopsis (Phalaen-like) has most likely been given because the orchids are reminescent of Phalaena moths in flight. Inflorescences of the Phalaenopsis sumatrana moth orchid get lengths up to 30 cm and carry multiple flowers. The slightly fragrant flowers get a size of about 7 cm in diameter. Flowering period: Spring - Autumn. Phalaenopsis sumatrana orchids are protected by CITES Appendix II (trade controlled to avoid use incompatible with species survival). The tropical moth orchid requires intermediate to warm temperatures and is best cultivated in partial shade. Phalaenopsis sumatrana orchids should be kept humid, but not wet. Never cut the inflorescence, before not completely dried out, as it may rebloom several times.

Flower Photography © Orchids Flowrs.com
Image: Moth Orchid Phalaenopsis sumatrana
Photographer: Kitisak “Nat” Jaidee

Phalaenopsis and Doritis species orchids at Orchids Flowers.com:

Doritis pulcherrima

Doritis pulcherima var. champornensis alba

Kingidium deliciosum

Phalaenopsis amboinensis

Phalaenopsis braceana

Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. sanguinea

Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi var. alba

Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi

Phalaenopsis equestris var. ilocos

Phalaenopsis hieroglyphica

Phalaenopsis lindenii

Phalaenopsis lobbii

Phalaenopsis mannii

Phalaenopsis parishii

Phalaenopsis schilleriana

Phalaenopsis stuartiana

Phalaenopsis sumatrana

Phalaenopsis tetraspis

Phalaenopsis venosa

Phalaenopsis violacea Borneo

Phalaenopsis violacea fo. coerulea

Phalaenopsis violacea var. alba