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Phalaenopsis orchid and its uses in floral art. 

Phalaenopsis
Common Name: Phalaenopsis Orchid, Moth Orchid, Phals.
Distribution:
Originated in the tropical peninsula of Malaysia and Singapore. The ideal temperatures for the Phalaenopsis range between 55° and 85° F
Characteristics
Phalaenopsis hybrids have flowers that range is size from ¾" to nearly 5" in diameter. Color range includes white, pinks, lavender and yellow in both solid colors and mixes of stripes and spots. Phalaenopsis flowers offer both exotic form and superb longevity. Individual blooms can last as long as 3 months. Flowers open sequentially at 2-5 day intervals along an  arching spike

In your home:
Phalaenopsis orchids enjoy a spot near or in a bright window. You'll want to avoid direct mid-day sun but early morning or late afternoon sun is great. An east or west facing window is ideal. In darker or cloudy environments a shaded southern window might be best.. For ideal growing try to maintain 60° at night and between 75°  and 80° during the day. Cool night time temperatures in the fall encourage flower spike initiation. However, once the flower spike is developed, wide swings in temperature can cause unopened bud to drop off. Temperatures in excess of 90° can slow growth. Phalaenopsis also benefit from moderate humidity levels. Ideal levels range between 50 and 75% relative humidity. In a heated home you will want to set your plants on a shallow tray filled with gravel and water. This should help to keep the humidity near your orchid at acceptable levels. Make sure that the plants roots are NOT sitting in water.
 
Flowers of the Phalaenopsis Orchid have superb longevity.
In this design (right) by Lorrane McMillan May 2001, she used the  beautiful shade of a  lilac  Phalaenopsis  to complement  the red and pink anthurriums, and the overall hot colours..
Speaking with Lorraine, a month later the orchids were still in excellent condition in her home.

More about Lorraine's design and how she made it here

Photographed at Singapore Airport and the Orchid Gardens in  June, these Phalaenopsis Orchids are growing naturally. Why not try to emulate this effect with lots of big green tropical foliage and stems hanging in their natural way.
Phaleanopsis orchids really don't like being put into floral foam, so if you can,cut the stem at a steep angle and use an orchid phial instead, or a tube. Floral food can be added and the container hidden in the foliage. Short bamboo lengths also make appropriate water holders.
Don't ever spray the flowers with water to refresh them as it may leave a mark.


Jane Packer, in her book, "Fast Flowers, Create Stunning displays in minutes," uses Phalaenopsis Orchids still in their pots for a very special gift. 
For complete instructions on how to achieve the design below, more delicious and fast ideas from her,  reviews of her excellent book, and buying online click here