Species of the Month – September 2016
Phalaenopsis lobbii (Rchb.f.) H.R.Sweet
Distribution:
Phalaenopsis lobbii is a dwarf sized hot to cool growing growing epiphyte found in North East India, 
Western Himalayan range to Vietnam.
Culture:
This species has two distinct seasons in its natural habitat. During its growing season it receives copious rain fall and fertilization and winters are dry and cold. This species most often will loose all its leaves in winter months and blooms with a short inflorescence with 3-5 flowers in early spring and sequentially bloom.
Fairly easy to grow in Bangalore. Grow the plant in bright light and keep it moist and fertilize during the growing season. This species are more tolerant of higher light than most of the Phals. Withhold fertilization during winter and mist the root zone to keep it from drying out completely.
Blooms once a year in spring and blooms can last 1-2 weeks in good care.
Could be grown as mounted or potted but does well if mounted.
Article and Photos by: Mr. Sriram Kumar