PLATE 11. 
PHAL/ENOPSIS GLORIOSA. 
The plant shown in our plate, although described as a distinct species 
by Reichenbach, is so closely related to P. Aphrodite that there can be little 
doubt as to its being only a variety of that popular species. It is a native of 
the Philippine Islands, whence it was introduced by Messrs. Low & Co., of Bush 
Hill Park, Enfield. It differs chiefly from the typical P. Aphrodite, in having 
paler green leaves, and in having the colour on the lip perhaps more diffused 
and more conspicuous. 
There are now several fine white Phalsenopses in cultivation—the largest 
and most remarkable perhaps being that known as Riemstedtiana. At one 
time they were considered to be difficult plants to grow, but the modern 
orchid grower hardly knows what failure means in connection with the culture 
of any orchid in these days. 
For the following cultural note we are indebted to Mr. H. G. Alexander, 
the excellent orchid grower to Major Holford, Westonbirt, Tetbury, whose 
magnificent exhibit at the R.H.S. Hall recently attracted so much attention, 
and was deservedly awarded a Gold Medal. Mr. Alexander himself secured at 
the same time the rare award of the u Lindley Medal ” as an appreciation of 
his skill as an orchid cultivator. 
Culture. —The genus Phalsenopsis has of late years apparently become 
better understood than hitherto, and in consequence these handsome orchids 
are yearly becoming more popular. Specimens growing luxuriantly are now 
often met with in gardens where failure followed all previous attempts at 
successful cultivation. Such plants are often accommodated in the ordinary 
plant stove, the most shady portion being allotted to them. Much, however, 
depends on the construction and situation of the house, and when a division is 
set apart for their special cultivation, a sheltered structure should be chosen, 
in which a warm moist congenial atmosphere can be maintained at all times. 
During recent years leaf-soil has been recommended and largely used as a 
rooting medium for these plants, but has, however, been abandoned by many 
good cultivators, because Phalsenopsis, like many other orchids grown in this 
material, make wonderful growth, with disappointing results at the flowering 
period. The plants are best grown in teak-wood baskets, or shallow pans, 
either suspended from the roof rafters, or stood on inverted pots on the stage. 
Ample drainage is essential for their well-being, using clean broken crocks for 
the purpose. Over this, clean fresh Sphagnum moss is the best material for 
the roots to work in, adding a little fibrous peat, or French polypodium fibre 
for the stronger growing kinds. These plants generally commence making- 
new roots in the spring, and when this is taking place, fresh compost should be 
afforded if necessary. Watering must always be carefully done, especially 
directly after re-potting. Whilst growing freely during summer, liberal 
quantities should be supplied, but in winter infrequent applications suffice. 
