Phal lueddemanniana f. alba 'Max-Snow Lover'

Written By Jill Heske

Phalaenopsis lueddemanniana fma alba 'Max-Snow Lover'

(species)

I’ve had this phal for several years but it has not bloomed for me so far. It is in spike now, so I’m hoping to see its first bloom in a few weeks. It seems the spikes on this species are prone to stalling and then restarting the next year. The image on the home page is credited to MysteryGardenStore on Etsy, where I bought the orchid in 2022. They have a very nice selection of healthy orchids.

History and Features

The Phalaenopsis lueddemanniana forma alba 'Max-Snow Lover' is a rare and coveted pure white variant of the species, displaying pristine waxy flowers on graceful stems above its dark green leaves. This uncommon alba form of P. lueddemanniana is known for producing keikis (baby plants) along its flower spikes, a characteristic inherited from its species background. The flowers release a delicate fragrance that is most noticeable during warm daylight hours.

Culture

I can’t find much about this orchid and its culture. The alba form appears to be fairly rare. The information below is the best I could come up with. I assume it grows like a typical summer phal. I will update as I gather more details.

Temperature

  • Intermediate to warm growing

  • Warmer than standard hybrids due to species parentage

  • Minimum temperature 60°F (16°C)

Light

  • Brighter light than standard Phals

  • East window or filtered south light

  • Some early morning sun beneficial

  • Leaves should be light to medium green

  • Red tinge indicates maximum acceptable light

  • Does well under LED lights

Water

  • Keep consistently moist

  • Allow slight drying between waterings

  • More frequent watering than complex hybrids

  • Water quality important due to species influence

  • Morning watering recommended

  • Good air movement essential

Potting and Media

  • Small to medium pots (species influence)

  • Small/medium bark

  • Can be mounted due to compact size

  • Don't overpot - roots prefer to be snug

Additional Notes

  • Sequential blooming tendency. Don’t cut off spike after blooming, since it can rebloom from the same spike.

  • Multiple bloom spikes possible

  • More compact than standard Phals, but leaves can get rather large as it matures.

  • Regular but weak fertilizer, 1/2 tsp per gallon

  • May bloom multiple times per year. Mine blooms in the summer only.

  • More warmth-loving than complex hybrids. Mine is on a heat mat under lights.

Jill Heske
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