Paraphalaenopsis denevei

Paraphalaenopsis denevei – A Rare Jewel from Borneo

Straight from the pristine lowland forests of western Borneo, Paraphalaenopsis denevei brings a truly unique charm to any orchid collection. This striking species is naturally found growing on riverside trees, basking in bright light and high humidity at elevations around 300 meters. Known for its unusual growth habit and beautiful, fragrant blooms, it is a must-have for enthusiasts seeking something extraordinary.

Paraphalaenopsis denevei is a large-sized epiphyte, prized for its fleshy, elongated, and channeled (canaliculate) leaves that can grow impressively wide and pendulous over time. In the spring and into summer, it produces elegant, fragrant flowers on successive, axillary inflorescences reaching up to 6.2" (15.5 cm) long, carrying up to 5–13 stunning pink blooms at a time. Each flower is delicately framed by triangular, tightly held floral bracts, adding to its graceful presentation.

Cultivation Tips for Paraphalaenopsis denevei

Light:
Provide bright, filtered light—mimicking its natural riverside environment. Avoid harsh direct sun but ensure ample light to encourage healthy growth and blooming.

Temperature:
Thrives in intermediate to warm temperatures, ideally between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Perfect for warm greenhouses or bright indoor spaces.

Humidity:
High humidity is key to this plant’s success. Aim for 60–80% humidity, especially during active growth periods.

Watering and Potting:
Paraphalaenopsis denevei prefers a moisture-retentive yet airy potting mix. We are successfully growing them in sphagnum moss, but they can also be mounted on slabs or placed in baskets where humidity levels are high. Water generously during the growing season but allow slight drying between waterings to avoid soggy roots.

Growth Habit:
While young plants may grow upright in pots, mature Paraphalaenopsis denevei prefer a pendulous growth habit. Consider hanging the plant at an angle or moving it to a basket or slab to allow its leaves to cascade naturally, creating a dramatic and elegant display.

Blooming Season:
Typically blooms in late spring through summer, filling the air with its lovely fragrance.

This is a blooming size bareroot division orchid, newly potted or mounted in a 3"; about 1 to 2 years to bloom grown from seed, limited!

Why Add Paraphalaenopsis denevei to Your Collection?

With its extraordinary foliage, cascading habit, and beautifully fragrant summer blooms, Paraphalaenopsis denevei offers an exotic flair unlike any other. Whether potted, mounted, or hanging in a basket, it rewards growers with both striking visual appeal and delightful scent. Rare in cultivation and endlessly captivating, this Bornean treasure is a true collector’s orchid!