The Phalaenopsis parishii orchid, known as the Bird Head Orchid, is a miniature species named for the distinctive “bird head” shape within its blossoms.
Understanding the Bird Head Orchid
The Bird Head Orchid is a miniature orchid species. Its small flowers, typically around 2 cm in diameter, appear quite large in proportion to the overall plant size. The star-shaped blooms often feature white or yellowish petals and sepals that tend to curl. The distinguishing “bird head” resemblance comes from the flower’s lip, which usually has purple to crimson spots, specific filamentous protuberances at its apex, and yellow side plots that may also bear purple spots. The column, which houses the reproductive structures, can also contribute to this bird-like appearance.
This orchid is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on other plants or objects, such as moss-covered tree branches, without drawing nutrients from them. Its leaves are typically elliptic to obovate, fleshy, and can hang downwards, measuring between 5 to 15 cm long. Phalaenopsis parishii is native to the Eastern Himalayas, including regions like Assam in India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, where it thrives in hot and humid conditions at lower elevations.
Essential Growing Conditions
This species requires bright, indirect light, similar to its natural shaded habitat. An east-facing window is often suitable, or a shaded south or west-facing window can work if the light is filtered to prevent direct sun exposure, which can scorch leaves. Olive green foliage indicates appropriate light levels, while dark green leaves might suggest insufficient light, potentially hindering blooms.
Phalaenopsis parishii thrives in warm conditions. Ideal daytime temperatures range from 28-32°C (82-90°F) and nighttime temperatures around 24°C (75°F), creating a daily difference of 4-7°C. In winter, the average day temperature can be 31-35°C (88-95°F) with nights at 19-23°C (66-73°F), allowing for a larger daily temperature fluctuation. Protecting the plant from sudden temperature shifts and drafts is important.
High humidity, with levels of 80-90% recommended during the growing season, is crucial. While it can adapt to lower home humidity (around 50-70%), higher levels are beneficial. Methods to increase humidity include using humidity trays filled with pebbles and water, grouping plants, or employing a room humidifier. Good air circulation is also important, especially in high-humidity environments, to prevent fungal issues.
Watering should be done thoroughly, allowing the potting medium to dry partially between waterings to prevent root rot. The frequency depends on the potting mix, with bark-based media requiring more frequent watering than sphagnum moss. Watering about once a week is often sufficient, but this can vary with temperature and light conditions. Using lukewarm water, such as rainwater, distilled water, or filtered tap water, is advisable, as orchids are sensitive to cold water and mineral buildup.
Suitable potting options include fine orchid bark, sphagnum moss, or a mixture containing tree fern fiber. Mounting the orchid on cork bark or hardwood is also effective, particularly where high humidity can be maintained. Repotting should generally occur in the spring, typically every other year, as the potting mix begins to break down.
Fertilizing and Encouraging Blooms
A balanced orchid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, is generally suitable, especially for plants in sphagnum moss. For those in bark mix, a higher nitrogen fertilizer like 30-10-10 might be considered because bark consumes nitrogen as it decomposes. It is important to use a urea-free fertilizer, as orchids do not readily absorb nitrogen from urea.
Apply fertilizer at a diluted strength, often referred to as “weakly, weekly” (e.g., 1/4 to 1/2 the recommended strength), during the growing season. Alternatively, a full-strength application once a month can be used. Always water the orchid thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn from salt concentrations. During winter or a rest period, reduce or eliminate fertilization.
Phalaenopsis parishii typically blooms in the spring, producing arching inflorescences that can carry several small, fragrant flowers. A key factor in encouraging blooming is providing a slight temperature drop, mimicking natural seasonal changes. Nighttime temperatures around 13°C (55°F) for several weeks in autumn can help initiate flower spikes. After blooming, the flower spikes can be left unless they completely dry, as they may rebloom from existing nodes.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Insufficient light is a primary reason for a lack of flowering, as the plant needs adequate light to produce energy for blooms. Lack of a sufficient night-to-day temperature differential or a cool rest period can also inhibit flowering.
Yellowing leaves can indicate several issues. Natural aging causes older, lower leaves to yellow and drop, which is normal. However, widespread yellowing can point to overwatering, leading to root rot, or underwatering, causing dehydration. Too much direct sunlight can also cause leaves to yellow or scorch. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen or magnesium, can also result in yellowing foliage.
Browning leaf tips often signal low humidity or mineral buildup from water or fertilizer. Increasing ambient humidity and flushing the potting medium periodically with plain water can address these issues.
Common orchid pests include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Inspecting plants regularly helps identify infestations early. Treatment often involves horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, applied according to product instructions. Good air circulation can help deter pests and fungal issues.
Root rot, characterized by soft, mushy, or discolored roots, primarily results from overwatering or poorly draining potting media. If root rot is present, carefully trim away affected roots with sterilized tools. Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining medium, and adjust watering practices to allow the medium to dry more between applications. Improving air circulation around the roots also helps prevent recurrence.