Michael Charters, www.calflora.net
Family
Orchidaceae
Botanical Name
Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi
Plant Common Name
Deer Antler Moth Orchid, Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis
General Description
The compact deer antler moth orchid bears branched stems decorated with star-like, spotted blossoms. Blooming is heaviest from spring to fall but can continue into the year with good care. Naturally found growing as an epiphyte (growing upon a plant) or lithophyte (growing upon a rock), this fragrant orchid is native to forested regions from India to Indonesia and the Philippines.
Its tongue-like leaves are oblong and rise from nodes on a very short stem. As it slowly elongates, it adds a new leaf one by one. Active growth occurs during the warm rainy season from spring to fall. Anytime of year, but mainly from spring to fall, flower stalks are produced. The stalks resemble slender deer antlers, and seven to twelve flowers dot each branch. The star-like blooms are deep yellow-green speckled with orange-red. The cupped floral lips are yellow and white. As wind catches the flowers, the entire flower stalk bobs, making the blossoms resemble fluttering moths. After the last blossom fades, the stalk remains and as long as it is green can produce intermittent flowers all year long. From late fall to winter, the plant enters dormancy.
Deer antler moth orchid thrives in hot tropical climates and requires bright filtered light for good growth and flowering. It is a true epiphyte that grows best mounted on a tree trunk, cork slab or nestled in a slatted basket or pot. Containers should be filled with bark mix. From spring to fall water frequently but only when the plant and bark are dry to the touch. Provide high humidity and ample air circulation to prevent rot. Light applications of liquid fertilizer should be applied in fall and winter. Protect from frost.
Allow the moth orchid to become rootbound before disturbing it. Do not repot it while it is in bloom but wait until spring when new root growth has just started. To encourage reblooming, cut spent flower stalks back so that three stalk nodes remain. Failure for moth orchids to prosper in an indoor environment is most likely due to overwatering and insufficient light. This orchid needs very bright indirect light; dark green leaves usually mean light levels are too low. The stems make nice cutflowers for bouquets.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 6
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USDA Hardiness Zone
12 - 15
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Sunset Zone
H2
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Plant Type
Epiphyte
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Sun Exposure
Partial Shade
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Height
5"-6" / 12.7cm - 15.2cm
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Width
6"-9" / 15.2cm - 22.9cm
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Bloom Time
Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer, Early Fall, Indeterminate
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Native To
Southeastern Asia, India
Growing Conditions
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Growth Rate
Slow
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Clump-Forming
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Cutflower, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
No
