Name: Phalaenopsis speciosa / “zebrina”

Etymology: The genus name Phalaenopsis roughly means “moth-like.” The Latin specific epithet speciosa means “splendid” or “showy” and refers to the striking flowers. The name “zebrina” alludes to the distinctive striped or high-contrast flower markings.

Origin/Distribution: The group of plants around Phalaenopsis speciosa is native to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the northeastern Indian Ocean.

Location/Habitat: The plants grow epiphytically in warm, humid tropical forests. We recommend partial shade to bright, filtered light, high humidity, and good air circulation. Warm conditions year-round, with daytime temperatures of approximately 20–30 °C and nighttime temperatures of 17–23 °C, are favorable. The roots should be watered regularly and then allowed to dry in airy conditions.

Description and Notes: Characteristic features include fleshy leaves and waxy, often fragrant flowers with highly variable markings. Individual flowers may vary in the extent of their white, yellowish, pink, or purplish-red markings. We grow the plant in a coarse, very airy Phalaenopsis medium and use water that is as soft as possible. We do not remove green flower spikes prematurely, as they may produce more flowers over an extended period.