Source: Wikimedia Commons
Violet Phalaenopsis
AdvancedPhalaenopsis violacea
A small moth orchid species from lowland Sumatra and nearby areas. A short zigzag stem opens violet-dominated flowers about 3.5 cm across one after another, with a strong spicy fragrance.
About
Phalaenopsis violacea is a small epiphytic moth orchid. Johannes Teijsmann found it in 1859 and sent it to Hortus Botanicus Leiden, and it was described in 1861. It grows in lowlands below 150 m on the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, hanging from branches. The stem is very short and carries three or four elliptic leaves with wavy edges. In spring it produces a flattened zigzag stem 10-12.5 cm long that opens two to seven fleshy flowers about 3.5 cm across in succession, two or three at a time. The flowers are mostly violet, some forms with green-edged tepals, and have a strong spicy, cinnamon-like scent. It has been used to bring fragrance into hybrids and is a parent of Phal. Harriettiae, reportedly the first man-made Phalaenopsis hybrid, recorded in 1887. Plants from Borneo were once included in this species, but P. bellina was separated in 1995 and P. mentawaiensis from the Mentawai Islands in 2014. P. bellina has larger leaves and flowers, and some sellers still offer it under the name violacea, so check the origin (Sumatra or Borneo) and flower size. In Japan it is sold by specialist orchid nurseries that carry Phalaenopsis species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Violet Phalaenopsis
The Violet Phalaenopsis grows to Small to medium; flower stem 10-12.5 cm, flowers about 3.5 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Malay Peninsula and Sumatra (lowlands below 150 m)
Lifespan
Perennial that can be kept for many years (little data on lifespan)
Size
Small to medium; flower stem 10-12.5 cm, flowers about 3.5 cm across
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes deep shade; keep it out of direct sun.
Watering
Keep humidity high and water regularly so it never dries out completely.
Temperature & Overwintering
A warm grower from the lowlands; keep it warm indoors in winter and away from cold.
Soil & Repotting
Pot it in sphagnum or bark, or mount it to suit its pendulous habit.
Fertilizer
Feed dilute liquid fertilizer regularly in the growing season.
Enjoying the Flowers
Flowers open in succession, so leave the stem in place while it is still green.
Violet Phalaenopsis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Violet Phalaenopsis?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Violet Phalaenopsis get?
The mature size of Violet Phalaenopsis is Small to medium; flower stem 10-12.5 cm, flowers about 3.5 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Violet Phalaenopsis?
Violet Phalaenopsis: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid fertilizer in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Violet Phalaenopsis?
The price of Violet 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 violacea H.Witte
Synonyms: Phalaenopsis violacea f. alba (Teijsm. & Binn.) Christenson, Phalaenopsis violacea f. caerulea Christenson, Phalaenopsis violacea f. coerulea Christenson, Phalaenopsis violacea var. alba Teijsm. & Binn., Polychilos violacea (H.Witte) Shim, Stauritis violacea (H.Witte) 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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