Internet site where I can identify Phalaenopsis

[jasonmom]

I just got my first blooming orchid in my house (yes I bought it that way ). It is a Phalaenopsis - that is all the label says (it also says to water with 3 ice cubes each week - won't be doing that). I love to find a site with a bunch of pictures with the names.

Anyone know a site like that?

I will be trying to figure out how to post pictures, but I'm trying to read up on Phalaenopsis care first as I have only had cattleyas (and those only for a month).

Have I mentioned that I'm super excited to have a blooming orchid in my house ?

[Ray]

If it is a species, you can search to your heart's content at the Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia (IOSPE - orchidspecies.com). If it is a hybrid, you can pretty much forget getting a true identity for it. There are just SO MANY similar-looking hybrids, and enough variation within each, that you'll never know for sure.

[Optimist]

I can't say I have ever had a phal with a name tag.

[MattWoelfsen]

This is a website I refer to all the time: http://www.phals.net/index_e.html

[Polarizeme]

Originally Posted by Optimist

I can't say I have ever had a phal with a name tag.

They used to come with tags from the big box stores, but not anymore. I have several with tags

[Jayfar]

If it's a "just add ice" orchid, it's essentially a NOID. If it were even a named hybrid, the grower won't reveal it to you. Most likely it is a proprietary hybrid and still the grower won't reveal it to you.

[jasonmom]

Originally Posted by MattWoelfsen

This is a website I refer to all the time: Phalaenopsis Orchids : species and primary hybrids

What an awesome site. Couldn't find mine, but it was fun to look through all the pictures and I think it can teach me things when I feel like looking more.

[orchidsarefun]

OrchidWiz has thousands of photos of registered orchids, including phals. I don't know if they still have a 30 day free trial - but you can do a lot in 30 days

[FSUOrchids]

As mentioned, it's almost impossible to find the exact plant, because Phals are produced commercially in massive quantities. I do actually have a couple of Phals with tags, but those are not the norm. Sometimes you can find ones with tags, but usually not.

[Cym Ladye]

I agree with those who say on the chances of identifying the breeding on your orchid is probably impossible. That said, just enjoy it for what it is.

If you want more info on the growing of Phals, a very good place to start is with the "sticky" at the head of this Beginner Forum, "The Phal Abuse Ends Here". Oodles of info and answers to lots of questions which have previously been discussed on this site.

Good Luck