Weird texture and discoloration on leaves

[Pixelcatz]

Hi everyone, this is a NoID that my hubby rescued from the dumpster at his work for me. I've had it for almost a year and it has consistently flowered but I've noticed this weird texture and spotting on the leaves.

Any idea what might be going on?

[Ray]

That is a phlaenopsis that formed an apical inflorescence (grew a flower spike from its center), so will ultimately die. The leaves are showing remnants of dehydration.

However, as you have a nice basal "pup" or "keiki" growing from its base, that should be fine, even when the original growth quits altogether.

[Pixelcatz]

Originally Posted by Ray

That is a phlaenopsis that formed an apical inflorescence (grew a flower spike from its center), so will ultimately die. The leaves are showing remnants of dehydration.

However, as you have a nice basal "pup" or "keiki" growing from its base, that should be fine, even when the original growth quits altogether.

Got it! Thanks Ray, I wasn't sure if it was a phal or not, its flowers are so much smaller than my others. I'm a little sad that the mother plant will die-- is there no way to save it?

It actually has several keiki growing around the base so I'm gonna need more space haha

[aliceinwl]

You can always leave the kiekis in place and grow it as a nice clump. It should put on quite a show when all the new growths flower! The plant isn't really dying it just has to initiate further growth from different areas.

[Orchid Whisperer]

People tend to think of a plant with basal keikis as a "mother" plant with "babies".

Instead, I like to think of the plant as a main trunk that develops branches. The whole plant continues to live, it is just "bushier". The basal keikis usually stay attached, but after some years, can develop roots and separate from the main trunk.

[Ray]

Good description, OW.

[Pixelcatz]

I'm happy to hear this! Thank you for commenting