Polychilos Phalaenopsis Care Guide 🌱

Polychilos Phalaenopsis, sometimes known as “summer-blooming phals,” are a unique and rewarding group within the Phalaenopsis family. With their lush, broad leaves and long-lasting, often fragrant blooms, these orchids are a favourite among collectors who want something a little different from the classic moth orchid. Whether you are new to orchids or expanding your collection, this guide will help you give your Polychilos the best possible care.

What Makes Polychilos Special? 🏆

Polychilos, the "summer star" phalaenopsis,  are a distinct botanical section within the Phalaenopsis genus and grows quite different from your regular store phalaenopsis. This section including species like Phal. bellina, Phal. violacea, Phal. amboinensis, and their hybrids. These orchids typically bloom from summer into early fall, and many will rebloom on old flower spikes, providing months of enjoyment. Many varieties are sweetly scented, adding another layer of delight. Their leaves are broad, waxy, sometimes wavy, and noticeably softer than those of the classic “moth orchid.”

Light Requirements ☀️

Polychilos thrive in similar lighting as a regular Phalaenopsis. Bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch their softer leaves, so it is best to place them near an east-facing window or behind sheer curtains in a south-facing window. If you use grow lights, aim for 12 to 14 hours per day, adjusting for the season. Position the plants about 30 to 45 centimeters (12 to 18 inches) from the lights for optimal growth.

Temperature & Humidity 🌡️💧

The main difference comes in the temperature and humidity.  These are tropical orchids prefer warm to intermediate temperatures. Think growing along side aroids and other tropical plants, ideally between 22–28°C up to even 32°C during the day and 18–24°C at night keeping a few degrees difference between day and night to mimic natural habitat. Maintaining humidity levels between 40% and 60% will help them thrive. If your home is dry, consider using a humidity tray or a room humidifier to keep the environment comfortable for your plants.

Watering 💦

Water your Polychilos as you do with Phalaenopsis, when the roots appear silver and the pot feels light. These orchids like to dry slightly between waterings but do not tolerate constantly soggy conditions. Always use room-temperature water and try to avoid letting water sit in the leaf axils, as this can lead to rot.

Potting Mix & Repotting 🪴

A fine-grade bark mix, sphagnum moss, or a bark mix with LECA  on the bottom is ideal for these orchids. Repot every 3-5 years, or whenever the potting mix breaks down. The best time to repot is after your orchid has finished flowering to minimize stress.

Fertilizing 🌱

Feed your Polychilos when it's actively growing in vegetative stage - typically when a top leaf emerges and growing. We recommend MSU & Marphyll rotation in low dosage every other watering and allow water flushing in between. 

Frequently Asked Questions 👇

Can Polychilos rebloom on old spikes? Absolutely! One of the most fascinating features of Polychilos is that they are sequential flowerers. Instead of producing all their blooms at once, a single flower spike will produce flowers one after another over a period of weeks or even months. As each bloom fades, a new bud develops and opens at the tip of the spike, so your plant can stay in bloom for an extended time. This makes Polychilos a delight to watch throughout the season and offers a rewarding experience for patient growers. Older plants can produce multiple spikes and those can often hold 2-3 folders at the same time!

If you have questions or want to share your Polychilos blooms, join our group on Facebook, Canadian Orchid Growers