Phalaenopsis Hsin Strawberry Cake

Phalaenopsis I-Hsin ‘Strawberry Cake’

Botanical / Hybrid Background

• Registered by I-Hsin Biotech (RHS, 2018). Orchidroots

• Parentage: Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Mack × Phalaenopsis Romance Valentine. Orchidroots

• Genetic influences: includes Phalaenopsis schilleriana (~29.8%) and Phalaenopsis amabilis (~18.8%) among its ancestry. Orchidroots

Flower / Bloom Characteristics

• Flowers are striking: yellow-cream base with rich pink to red spotting (“strawberry”-like speckles) across the petals and sepals. Hennis Orchideen

• The lip typically shows complementary coloring, adding visual interest.

• Bloom size and number: moderate — well-distributed along the spike.

• This hybrid often has good “display” potential because of its colorful pattern and typical Phalaenopsis form.

Growth Habit

• Monopodial growth: produces a central stem with broad, leathery Phalaenopsis-style leaves. (General Phalaenopsis trait.) Wikipedia

• Roots: coarse aerial roots, typical of moth orchids.

• Size: As a typical Phalaenopsis hybrid, it can be kept in a standard orchid pot; spike length and plant height are moderate, suitable for indoor shelving or window-display.

Care Requirements

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sun. aos.org

• Temperature: Ideal daytime temperatures ~20–25 °C (68–77 °F), with nights not dipping too low; a mild cool period may help flowering. Hennis Orchideen

• Watering: Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry; allow water to drain fully. Dr. Bill's Orchids, LLC+1

• Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity (50–80%) for healthy growth. aos.org

• Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced orchid fertilizer during the active growing (warmer/lighter) months; reduce during lower-light seasons. Hennis Orchideen

• Potting: Use a well-draining orchid mix (e.g., bark or a bark-moss blend). Repot every 1–3 years or when the medium decomposes. aos.org

Why It’s a Great Choice

• Decorative Appeal: The spotted, “dessert-like” flower pattern makes it visually charming — perfect for decorative homes or gift orchids.

• Beginner-Friendly Hybrid: As a Phalaenopsis, it’s relatively forgiving and well-suited for growers with some experience, but also for more dedicated beginners.

• Reliable Blooming: With proper light and a slight drop in night temperature, it can rebloom on a regular cycle.

Potential Challenges

• If light is too low, the color intensity of the spots may be less vivid; too much direct sun can cause leaf burn.

• Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, as with most Phalaenopsis.

• Without a slight temperature drop, it may not spike reliably for blooms.