Phal Pulsation (dupe)
Phalaenopsis Pulsation (dupe)
(likely a NOID)
This my most prolific orchid by far. It’s my oldest orchid and it is always either in bloom or in spike. It’s a supermarket orchid so I suspect it is not really a Phal Pulsation, but that’s what it looks most like. It does not have any fragrance so is probably highly hybridized, but it is very pretty! For the sake of interest, I have provided background on the actual Phal Pulsation. I know I shouldn’t, but I do tend to move things around on occasion, but this one has had its own special spot in the sunroom for at least 6 years.
History and Features
Phalaenopsis Pulsation is a hybrid orchid, created by crossing two Phalaenopsis species: Phalaenopsis pulchra x Phalaenopsis violacea. It was registered as a hybrid in 1991 by H. Wallbrunn.
The flowers are relatively small for a Phalaenopsis hybrid, typically around 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm) across. They display rich, warm colors, usually featuring shades of pink to rose-purple, often with deeper purple markings. The flowers may show some of the striping patterns inherited from P. violacea, and the lip typically shows contrasting darker colors.
Like its parent P. violacea, Pulsation can be fragrant, typically producing a sweet, light perfume that is most noticeable during warmer parts of the day. This fragrance is considered more subtle than some other fragrant Phalaenopsis hybrids.
The plant has a compact growth habit, making it suitable for windowsill growing. The leaves are typically dark green and succulent, arranged in the classic Phalaenopsis fan pattern. The flower spikes tend to be relatively short compared to standard complex Phalaenopsis hybrids.
This hybrid combines some of the best characteristics of its species parents: the compact size and rich colors of P. pulchra with some of the pattern elements and fragrance of P. violacea. It's considered a good choice for growers interested in species-influenced hybrids rather than the more common large-flowered complex hybrids.
Culture
This is a general culture guide for the very popular and robust supermarket Phalaenopsis orchids.
Temperature
Easy-going intermediate range
Day: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
Night: 60-65°F (16-18°C)
Can tolerate normal home temperatures
Protect from cold drafts and AC vents
Light
Bright indirect light
East or north window ideal
Filtered light from south/west window
No direct sun except early morning. I never got away with any direct sun at all. It always burned the leaves. Luckily that just looks really bad and shouldn’t hurt the orchid. Eventually old leaves fall off.
Leaves should be medium green
Yellow-green indicates too much light
Dark green suggests too little light
Water
Allow to approach dryness between waterings
Water thoroughly when media feels dry
Never let sit in standing water
Weekly watering usually sufficient
Reduce in winter
Morning watering recommended
Ice cubes NOT recommended despite marketing. Orchids generally come from warm humid climates.
Normal household humidity usually adequate. I don’t say much about humidity on this site because it’s general knowledge that orchids love humidity but homes don’t have it. Consistent watering generally solves that problem, although it can be difficult to keep air roots plump.
Potting and Media
Repot when media breaks down (1-2 years)
Use commercial orchid mix or
Medium bark mixed with perlite for drainage and some sphag moss so you don’t have to water as often.
Clear pots help monitor root health. It’s fun to see the roots grow!
Good drainage essential
Repot when roots are in active growth, usually in the spring.
Remove old media from roots when repotting. You don’t have to get all of it, just as much as you can.
Additional Notes
Fertilize "weekly, weakly" during growth, 1/2 tsp fertilizer per gallon.
Cut spike at base after blooms fade if you want to. It doesn’t matter. If you leave them, or cut them halfway, they can grow a secondary spike. Mine often do. You should cut the spike off if it dries out and turns brown.
Clean leaves occasionally with damp cloth
Usually bloom once or twice per year. Once you get them happy they will often spike again right after blooms die off.
Very forgiving of normal home conditions
Good orchids for beginners
