Source: Wikimedia Commons
Stuart's Phalaenopsis
IntermediatePhalaenopsis stuartiana
A moth orchid species endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines. It has mottled leaves and in winter and spring arches a branching stem up to 90 cm long bearing as many as 100 faintly fragrant flowers 5-9 cm across.
About
Phalaenopsis stuartiana is an epiphytic moth orchid described in 1881 and named after Stuart, a 19th-century English gardener. It is endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines, growing in warm, humid forests up to 300 m. The stem is short, with a few fleshy, oblong leaves that arch or hang and are mottled green. It flowers in winter and spring on a branching, arching to pendent stem up to 90 cm long, with as many as 100 faintly fragrant flowers 5-9 cm across. Heavily spotted forms have been described as f. punctatissima and f. nobilis. It was once treated as a variety of P. schilleriana, which has similar mottled leaves. It is a parent of Phal. Cassandra, a hybrid with P. equestris. In cultivation it prefers shade and high humidity and even watering all year. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Phalaenopsis species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Stuart's Phalaenopsis
The Stuart's Phalaenopsis grows to Medium; flower stem up to 90 cm, flowers 5-9 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Mindanao, Philippines (up to 300 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years (little data on lifespan)
Size
Medium; flower stem up to 90 cm, flowers 5-9 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes shade; keep it in bright shade out of direct sun.
Watering
Water evenly all year and keep humidity high.
Temperature & Overwintering
A warm grower from warm lowland forest; keep it warm indoors in winter too.
Soil & Repotting
It can be potted or mounted. Repot or mount while the root tips are actively growing, taking care not to damage the roots.
Fertilizer
Feed dilute liquid fertilizer regularly in the growing season.
Enjoying the Flowers
The long, hanging stem carries many flowers, so give it room to trail, for example in a hanging pot or on a high shelf.
Stuart's Phalaenopsis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Stuart's Phalaenopsis?
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 Stuart's Phalaenopsis get?
The mature size of Stuart's Phalaenopsis is Medium; flower stem up to 90 cm, flowers 5-9 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Stuart's Phalaenopsis?
Stuart's Phalaenopsis: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Stuart's Phalaenopsis?
The price of Stuart's 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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Phalaenopsis stuartiana Rchb.f.
Synonyms: Phalaenopsis schilleriana var. alba Roebelen, Phalaenopsis schilleriana var. vestalis Rchb.f., Phalaenopsis stuartiana f. nobilis (Rchb.f.) Christenson, Phalaenopsis stuartiana f. punctatissima (Rchb.f.) Christenson, Phalaenopsis stuartiana var. bella Rchb.f., Phalaenopsis stuartiana var. nobilis Rchb.f.
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
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.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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