Phalaenopsis: A Monograph

Eric A. Christenson

4.83 · Rating details · 6 ratings · 5 reviews

Without a doubt, the most widely grown orchids in the world are the species and hybrids of Phalaenopsis, the "moth orchids." Since their discovery by western botanists in the 18th century, phalaenopsis were considered aristocrats even among orchids and were eagerly sought out by the most discerning — and wealthy — of collectors. With advances in orchid propagation and Without a doubt, the most widely grown orchids in the world are the species and hybrids of Phalaenopsis, the "moth orchids." Since their discovery by western botanists in the 18th century, phalaenopsis were considered aristocrats even among orchids and were eagerly sought out by the most discerning — and wealthy — of collectors. With advances in orchid propagation and breeding in the middle 20th century, however, these orchids became accessible and affordable to anyone with an eye for exceptional beauty. Few floriculture crops have swamped the marketplace as suddenly as phalaenopsis has in recent years, with millions of plants being produced for the mass market annually. Moth orchids have helped eliminate the misconception of orchids as temperamental conservatory plants only for the very rich. In the words of author Eric Christenson, we are witnessing "the makings of an orchid revolution."

Against this backdrop of change and ferment, Christenson set out to write a definitive monograph of the genus Phalaenopsis, the first thorough treatment since Herman Sweet's revision in 1969. Focusing mainly on the forebears of today's omnipresent hybrids — the species — he always keeps an eye on the characteristics that species might bring to today's hybridization programs. With extensive keys and detailed reviews of the taxonomy of the genus, Christenson provides a thorough picture of the current scientific understanding of these remarkable plants.

In addition to its scientific content, this book offers a wealth of practical information for the orchid hobbyist. A useful chapter on cultivation techniques is included, as is a chapter on hybrids in their many forms, shapes, and colors. More than 200 color photos and 60 drawings enliven the work and provide a fascinating visual overview.

With the full sponsorship and support of the International Phalaenopsis Alliance, Christenson has written an extraordinary book reflecting years of botanical research and horticultural experience with the genus. No orchid specialist will want to be without it.

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Hardcover, 394 pages

Published February 23rd 2001 by Timber Press

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Sep 11, 2016 Erica rated it it was amazing

Great textbook on Phals. Will be especially useful when trying to determine the names of my "no-ID" phals. Also has very detailed, very specific cultivation needs for each subgenus and species.

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Feb 18, 2009 Don rated it it was amazing

Shelves: books-on-orchids

Excellent! If you love the species phals, you will find this text indispensable. All the species are listed, along with their origins, growing conditions and particulars, descriptions, all the pariculars. Well worth tracking it down.

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Sep 24, 2015 Elena Gaillard rated it it was amazing

Shelves: orchids

Though technical in nature, this excellent book by the late Dr. Christenson was many people's first exposure to many increasingly popular Phal species. Controversially it's the book that eliminated the genus Doritis...whether you agree or not, it's worth reading the explanations.

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Dec 06, 2008 Sarah rated it it was amazing

Another must have for phal growers

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Mar 17, 2015 Zawn V rated it it was amazing

Shelves: horticulture, science

This is a highly technical book that is definitely not for beginners. If you want an excellent grasp on orchid taxonomy and history, though, look no further.

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