Two Phalaenopsis species in bloom

Updates from the grow space this month include two species that are currently in bloom. Of the two, only Phal. fuscata is distributed in Borneo, whereas Phal. stuartiana is a species endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines. These two species make quite a lovely primary hybrid, which has been registered as Phal. Zuma's Angelita (click on the name to get a link to see an example from www.phals.net). A plan to remake this cross with these two individuals is currently underway.

Interesting observations include the pretty unique fragrance that is emitted by Phal. fuscata, which is a mix of sweet and grassy scents, with a woody undertone. As for the nobilis form of Phal. stuartiana, the flowers open mostly pale and the suffuse yellow coloration took about two weeks to deepen in my conditions. This plant isn't fragrant, which suggests that this trait could be variable within this species.

Phalaenopsis stuartiana f. nobilis

Phalaenopsis fuscata