Red-purplish leaves?

[narquelie]

Hello This is my first post on here, but I have to say it seems like a really lovely place!
I'm very much a beginner when it comes to this, so I have to apologise for my ignorance. I've had an orchid for almost 2 years, but I received it as a gift and I know nothing about plants so I don't even know what kind of orchid it is (assuming it's a phalaenopsis, though). I always worry that it doesn't get enough light, as its leaves are quite dark. However, it got a new leaf a few weeks ago and a considerable part of its surface is a strange red-purplish colour. I googled that and apparently it happens when they get too much sunlight - I'm pretty sure mine doesn't, though?

Sorry for being so awfully ignorant, I'd be really grateful if anyone could help though.

[Optimist]

There is a good deal of variety of leaf color in cultivars. I was just at Lowes looking at what they had, and the variety in leaf color was amazing.some light, some with a lot of red. I noticed the phal leaves were more yellowy, the DTPS were redder. A touch of red on the leaves is supposed to be a good thing, in cattleyas anyway. Usually orchid leaves become somewhat chartruse or granny smith green when they are getting optimum light. Some get some red on the edge and vein.

[WhiteRabbit]

Color of foliage can vary by hybrid or species - even by bloom color. Some will be naturally lighter or darker than others; some darker leaves may be purplish on the backs,and around the edges - and will become overall purplish /reddish if growing in stronger light - new leaves coming in on these ones may also be purplish-red, even in lower light.

[narquelie]

Thank you for the replies So basically there's no need to worry?
Would it help if I posted some pictures? It's currently got several beautiful flowers too.

[kindrag23]

Hey if you got it to re spike (bloom) you are doing something right. You had to post 5 x's before it will allow you to post pictures. Don't feel bad we all start somewhere and welcome to the board it is a very welcoming place.

[narquelie]

Sounds reassuring, thank you!

[RosieC]

Welcome to Orchid Board. Sounds like good advice above. I have found I have a variety of leaf colours, and some Phalaenopsis with quite redish tinted leaves whatever the light. If it seems otherwise healthy I wouldn't worry.