Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack is a stunning hybrid orchid known for its deep purple, almost black flowers. This cultivar is prized for its unique coloration and elegant blooms. Developed by Taiwan’s I-Hsin Biotechnology, it’s a cross between Phalaenopsis Black Eagle and Phalaenopsis Sogo Relex. The I-Hsin Black Jack requires specific care to thrive and produce its signature dark blooms.
What Makes Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack Unique?
Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack stands out for several reasons:
- Deep Color: Its flowers are an intense purple-black, a rare and sought-after trait in orchids.
- Bloom Size: Large flowers, typically 3-4 inches across.
- Bloom Duration: Flowers can last up to 3 months with proper care.
- Growth Habit: Compact plant size, suitable for windowsills or small spaces.
How to Provide Optimal Growing Conditions?
What Temperature Does Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack Prefer?
Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack thrives in moderate temperatures:
- Daytime: 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C)
- Nighttime: 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C)
Maintain a temperature difference of 10-15°F between day and night to encourage blooming.
What Are the Humidity Requirements?
This orchid prefers high humidity:
- Optimal range: 50% to 70%
- Methods to increase humidity:
- Use a humidity tray
- Group plants together
- Run a humidifier nearby
How Much Light Does It Need?
Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack requires:
- Medium to bright indirect light
- 10,000 to 20,000 lux (1,000 to 2,000 foot-candles)
- Avoid direct sunlight, especially during hot summer days
| Light Intensity | Description | Example Location |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 1,000-2,000 lux | North-facing window |
| Medium | 2,000-3,500 lux | East or west-facing window |
| Bright | 3,500-5,000 lux | South-facing window with sheer curtain |
What Are the Best Watering Techniques?
Proper watering is crucial for Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack:
- Frequency: Water when the top inch of potting medium feels dry.
- Method:
- Immerse the pot in water for 10-15 seconds.
- Allow excess water to drain completely.
- Timing: Water in the morning to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Quality: Use room temperature, filtered or rainwater if possible.
Avoid:
– Overwatering, which can lead to root rot
– Getting water on leaves or in the crown
How to Propagate Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack?
What Are the Most Effective Propagation Methods?
- Keiki Production:
- Wait for keikis (baby plants) to form on flower spikes.
- Allow keikis to develop 2-3 leaves and 2-3 inch roots.
-
Carefully remove and pot in orchid mix.
-
Division:
- Only possible with mature, multi-growth plants.
- Separate growths with at least 3 healthy roots each.
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Pot divisions in fresh orchid mix.
-
Meristem Culture (Advanced):
- Requires laboratory conditions.
- Used for mass production in commercial settings.
When Does Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack Bloom?
What Is the Typical Blooming Season?
Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack usually blooms:
- Late winter to early spring
- Flower spikes emerge in late winter
- Blooms can last 2-3 months with proper care
How to Encourage Reblooming?
To trigger new blooms:
- Provide a temperature drop to 55-65°F for 2-4 weeks.
- Reduce watering slightly during this period.
- Use a bloom booster fertilizer (high phosphorus) in late summer.
- Ensure adequate light during growing season.
What Are Common Diseases and Pests?
How to Identify and Treat Diseases?
- Root Rot:
- Symptoms: Soft, brown roots; wilting leaves
-
Treatment: Remove affected roots, repot in fresh medium
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Leaf Spot:
- Symptoms: Dark spots on leaves
-
Treatment: Improve air circulation, apply fungicide
-
Viral Infections:
- Symptoms: Mottled leaves, deformed flowers
- Treatment: No cure; isolate and discard infected plants
How to Manage Pests?
Common pests include:
- Mealybugs:
- Identification: White, cottony masses on leaves and stems
-
Treatment: Remove with alcohol-dipped cotton swab; use insecticidal soap
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Spider Mites:
- Identification: Tiny moving dots, webbing on leaves
-
Treatment: Increase humidity; use miticide
-
Scale:
- Identification: Small, brown, oval bumps on leaves and stems
- Treatment: Scrape off; apply horticultural oil
Preventive measures:
– Regular inspection
– Good air circulation
– Proper watering practices
By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow and enjoy the unique beauty of Phalaenopsis I-Hsin Black Jack in your home or greenhouse.
References:
1. https://www.repotme.com/pages/phalaenopsis-care?srsltid=AfmBOooxSpBfqlQVtaTAXJ0y3omV0dTJ4dh7uQxS_iVVqRP_Hs9L59bI
2. https://www.myhealthyorchids.com/post/phalaenopsis-home-care-guidelines
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwZOMrAhqTI