Smithsonian Gardens

Common name: The Gigantic Phalaenopsis, Elephant Ears

Family: Orchidaceae subfam. Epidendroideae (Orchid)

Distribution: Borneo

Habitat: Lowland and hill forests; 0-1315ft (0-400m)

Life form: Epiphytic

Bloom Time (northern hemisphere): Year round; peaks in September

Foliage characteristics: Leaves can be up to 3 feet (1 m) long and 11" (28 cm) wide - they are the largest of any Phalaenopsis.

Fragrance: Citrus

Bloom characteristics: Pendent inflorescence is 6-15" (15.25-38 cm) long with 20-30 white, waxy flowers covered in purple marks which open simultaneously. Flowers are 1.5-2.75" (3.8-7 cm) across and can last several months. Inflorescence can bloom for several seasons if left uncut.

Description: The Gigantic Phalaenopsis is not named for its flowers – although its cream-colored flowers with raised purple spots are lovely – but its leaves. This orchid’s giant leaves can be up to three feet (one meter) long and nearly a foot (30 centimeters) wide.