Name: Phalaenopsis violacea H.Witte
Etymology: The species name violacea means “violet-colored” and refers to the characteristic violet-purple color of the flowers.
First description: Described by H. Witte in 1862.
Origin / Distribution: Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula.
Location / Habitat:
Epiphytic in warm lowland rainforests at elevations of about up to 150 m above sea level. The plants usually grow in shaded spots on tree trunks or larger branches in very high humidity and warm temperatures year-round. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, so there is no pronounced dry season.
Description & Notes:
A small to medium-sized, monopodial orchid with short stems and a few thick, leathery leaves. The relatively short inflorescences emerge from the leaf axils and successively produce several striking, waxy flowers. The flowers are usually an intense violet to purple and give off a strong, sweet fragrance, especially during the daytime.
Phalaenopsis violacea is one of the most important species in the breeding of fragrant Phalaenopsis hybrids. In cultivation, it prefers warm temperatures, high humidity, good air circulation, and a bright location with filtered light. The substrate should be kept evenly moist without becoming waterlogged.