Which Phal? So Many to Choose From!

[Triffid]

I may be new to this lark, but hell I love my plants!

I have acquired 5 orchids of the non-named variety, 4 Phals and 1 Den.

Now I wish to invest in a Species or True Hybrid, but with so many to choose from I'm not sure where to start! I've looked, but when you look too much you can't see the wood for the trees.
So has anyone got a suggestion for the best one to go for first?
I have limited funds, so nothing too rare please.

Preferences:
Phal.
House plant only (Positions are varied, plenty of light options)
Not too big!
Not too many unusual growing quirks. (i.e. extreme temperatures or humidity)
Colours: Anything but pure Pink, prefer dark reds and purples.

Any suggestions from you more experienced folk would be very much appreciated

[Bird Song Farm]

Hi,
For an easy, species phal., I'd recommend Phal. equestris.
Al

[trdyl]

Along with equestris, amabilis, aphrodite, schilleriana are also very easy.

[Izzie]

I'll be interested in what people suggest, your indoor conditions and habits sound similar to mine.

Why just phals, out of curiosity?

[Bird Song Farm]

Originally Posted by trdyl

Along with equestris, amabilis, aphrodite, schilleriana are also very easy.

Hi Ted,
schilleriana gives me fits!! I have three, all doing well but haven't had a sign of a spike on any of them. My oldest one I've had for 3 years.
Al

[trdyl]

Sorry to hear that Al. If people saw what I do to my Phals some would scream. I have had mine fore 4 years now and it is a realiable bloomer. I got as a 2" first bloom meristem and the spikes are getting progessively larger and starting to branch. I expose them to almost freezing temps every year and they don't miss a beat.

[BikerDoc5968]

Originally Posted by Bird Song Farm

Hi Ted,
schilleriana gives me fits!! I have three, all doing well but haven't had a sign of a spike on any of them. My oldest one I've had for 3 years.
Al

That's because you live in Maine and never see the sun shine..... Poor thing sees wind and snow and cold and is fearful of putting up a spike!!!!!

[Triffid]

Thanks for the suggestions so far!
Will be having a good look at some images first... Mmmm Pretty!
Well that me for the next half hour or so, better make a coffee.

Originally Posted by Izzie

Why just phals, out of curiosity?

Suppose I am comfortable with them. My first was a Gift for my anniversary, and Phal derivatives are fairly easy to come by for little outlay in money.
I have looked at other types, but haven't the courage to take any on just yet.
Plus I already know that the Phal flowers are brilliant for pressing!
....Or you could just call me strange. I wont be offended.

[Tindomul]

I agree, schilleriana, equestris! Those two would be great choices.
Ted, I think orchids are way tougher than people think. I expose my pleuros to some really cold temperatures, direct sun, and they seem to love it. As long as they get plenty of humidity. Phals I would assume are the same, so long as they get enough moisture, stay above 0 degrees C or 32 F, and don't get blazing desert sun they should be fine. Although, Phals really do respond quickly to strong lighting, with reddening leaves, but I have yet to burn one.

[Bird Song Farm]

Originally Posted by Triffid

Plus I already know that the Phal flowers are brilliant for pressing!
....Or you could just call me strange. I wont be offended.

They are also great for drying (microwave).
As far as strange is concerned, you are in good company. Just look at the post from BikerDoc and you get a good idea.

Al