Phalaenopsis Liodoro Orchid
Phalaenopsis Liodoro (Sweet Memory)
Height
40–50 cm (leaves), spike up to 70 cm
Flower size
6–7 cm
Bloom time
Spring – Autumn (can bloom year-round)
Light
Bright Indirect (East window)
Watering
Immersion (when roots are silvery)
Hardiness
Indoor (not below +16°C)
Fragrance
Strong; notes of citrus, lily-of-the-valley, and candy
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Stunning perfume-like fragrance (rare for Phalaenopsis)
- Dense 'waxy' flowers that last 2-3 months
- Beautiful wide light-green foliage
- Ability to bloom from the same spike for several years
Disadvantages
- Leaf rosette is very large and sprawling (takes up space)
- Light leaves burn easily in direct sun
- More sensitive to overwatering than common hybrids
Use in Landscape Design
Exclusively an indoor plant. Needs a heavy, stable pot as the leaves can make it top-heavy. Best on a desk or stand near a window to enjoy the scent. Not recommended for bedrooms if you are sensitive to strong aromas.
Variety Description: Sweet Memory
A classic hybrid. Star-shaped flowers, pink-cream with purple spotting and yellowish edges. Petals feel waxy or plastic-like. Scent intensifies in the morning sun. Wide, rounded 'floppy' leaves.
Lighting and Placement
More shade-tolerant than common orchids but needs light for scent. East window is ideal. South window is a no-go (will burn). If leaves yellow, move to more shade.
Watering: The Root Rule
Watch root color through a clear pot. • Green roots — enough moisture, DO NOT water. • Silvery-grey roots — time to water. Immersion method for 15-20 mins. Dry the leaf joints with a napkin after to prevent rot.
Substrate and Repotting
Orchids don't grow in soil! Use pine bark (1-2 cm), sphagnum moss, and charcoal. Clear pots only. Repot every 2-3 years when bark degrades.
Blooming and Pruning (Important!)
Sequential bloomer: spike keeps growing buds at the tip. Never cut a green spike! It will rest and rebloom. Only cut parts that have turned yellow/brown and dry.
Diseases
Root rot (overwatering) and mealybugs are main issues. Check leaf undersides. Wipe leaves monthly with lemon-water for prevention.