Miltoniopsis orchids are commonly known as pansy orchids because they carry a striking resemblance to those popular garden flowers.

Their velvety, rounded petals are flat-faced, in colours ranging from white to pink to red, often with contrasting waterfall lines radiating outward from the centre of the flower. These charming flowers are fragrant and last about 4-5 weeks.

You can expect these evergreen orchids to bloom prolifically year after year. Most will bloom in spring, with some giving a second show of blooms in fall. The Miltoniopsis orchid has pseudobulbs, with 1 tall leaf growing from each tip. Tall flower stems carry as many as 10 pansy-like flowers, each growing up to 4 in (10 cm) wide.

Pansy orchids are epiphytes in the wild, growing on trees where they anchor themselves with thick roots. They like free-flowing air as in their native tropical habitats.

Care Tips

Height: 1-2 ft (30-60 cm)

Light: Bright indirect light. Some direct sun in winter is fine.

Water: Water thoroughly and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. These orchids store water in their rhizomes, and some species have water-storing pseudobulbs, making them more tolerant of dry soil than wet.

Humidity: Moderate to high, preferably at least 60% relative humidity.

Temperature: Will tolerate temperatures between 60-85°F/16-29°C.

Soil: Orchid potting mix

Fertiliser: Feed every 2 weeks with an orchid fertiliser in spring and summer, while plant is growing and flowering.

Propagation: Division. Divide the rhizome in summer, leaving each section with at least 2 pseudobulbs attached to each piece. Using a sharp knife, cut through the rhizome that joins them. Pot them separately.

Information from: www.guide-to-houseplants.com