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Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis

Intermediate

Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi

A moth orchid species named for its flattened, branching flower stem that resembles a deer's antler. The same stem keeps producing fleshy, fragrant flowers 3-5 cm across over a long period. It is widespread in lowland Southeast Asia.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
15〜30℃
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years (little data on lifespan)
Size
Small; flower stem 9-42 cm, flowers 3-5 cm across
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season

About

Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi is a small epiphytic moth orchid whose epithet means 'deer's horn', after the flattened, winged flower stem that branches like an antler; its Thai name has the same meaning. It is widespread in India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, the Nicobar Islands, Malaysia, Java, Borneo, Sumatra and the Philippines, growing at 200-1,000 m on stunted trees in fairly exposed places or high in the canopy of dewy riverside and lowland forests, and sometimes on rocks. The stem is short with fleshy, oblong leaves. A flattened, branching stem 9-42 cm long carries seven to twelve fleshy, fragrant, long-lasting flowers 3-5 cm across. It flowers mainly from spring to autumn but can bloom at any time of year. The stem flowers again while it stays green, so it should not be cut. Forms such as the yellow f. flava and red f. sanguinea have been described. It is also a parent of the natural hybrid P. x valentinii. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Phalaenopsis species.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis

The Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis grows to Small; flower stem 9-42 cm, flowers 3-5 cm across.

Basic Info

Origin

India to Southeast Asia and the Philippines (200-1,000 m)

Lifespan

Perennial that can be kept for many years (little data on lifespan)

Size

Small; flower stem 9-42 cm, flowers 3-5 cm across

Temperature

15〜30℃

Humidity

50〜70%

Watering & Fertilizer

Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

Grow it in bright partial shade.

Watering

Keep humidity high and water during growth, then give a distinct drier spell in winter.

Temperature & Overwintering

It is said to tolerate hot to cool conditions; keep it indoors and away from cold in winter.

Soil & Repotting

Mount it, or pot it in a coarse, free-draining medium.

Fertilizer

Feed dilute liquid fertilizer regularly in the growing season.

Enjoying the Flowers

The stem reblooms while it stays green, so do not cut it after flowering.

OrchidPhalaenopsisSpeciesFragrantSoutheast Asia

Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QHow large does Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis get?
A

The mature size of Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis is Small; flower stem 9-42 cm, flowers 3-5 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis?
A

Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis?
A

The price of Deer-antlered Phalaenopsis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 23, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi (Breda) Blume & Rchb.f.

Synonyms: Phalaenopsis borneensis Garay, Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. borneensis (Garay) O.Gruss & M.Wolff, Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. chattaladae D.L.Grove, Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. flava (Braem ex Holle-De Raeve) Christenson, Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. picta (Hassk.) O.Gruss & M.Wolff, Phalaenopsis cornu-cervi f. sanguinea Christenson

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

CITES Appendix II

The whole orchid family is listed in CITES Appendix II (checked on Species+). International trade requires permits such as export permits, but no registration is needed to buy, sell or transfer plants within Japan.

Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: list of Nationally Rare Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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