Phalaenopsis Spike Turning Pink After Cutting: Genetic Die-Back

Melissa cut her Phalaenopsis spike halfway after the last flower dropped, dusted with cinnamon. The stub turned creamy yellow at the top, fading to pink at the base. She wondered if this was abnormal.

Two Genetic Types of Spike Behavior

• Type A (rebloomers): Spike stays green; cutting above a node can induce a branch with new buds.
• Type B (die-back): Spike naturally yellows, browns, pinks, and withers after flowering—cutting above a node does not prevent this.

Melissa Has Type B

The color change (yellow→pink) is the normal die-back sequence. No treatment (cinnamon, sealant) alters the genetics. The plant will produce a new spike from the base next flowering season (typically spring).

Action

Once the stub is fully brown/dry, cut it at the base. Focus culture on growing strong leaves and roots for next year's spike.