Which Orchids Rebloom on Old Spikes? Phalaenopsis and Psychopsis

Reblooming on Old Spikes: Rare but Real

Most orchids never rebloom on spent spikes. Two notable exceptions:

1. Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchids)

• Some hybrids keep green spikes after blooming.
• Nodes (bumps) along spike can produce branches with new buds.
• Technique: Cut green spike 1 inch above a node → may branch.
• Caveat: Not all hybrids do this; many spikes die back naturally.

2. Psychopsis (Butterfly Orchids)

• Frequently rebloom sequentially on the same spike for years.
• Never cut Psychopsis spikes unless brown/dead.
• Can simultaneously send up new spikes while reblooming old ones.

All Other Common Genera

Cattleya, Dendrobium, Oncidium, Cymbidium, Vanda, Paphiopedilum, Zygopetalum—cut spikes at base after blooming. They bloom on new growth only.

Decision Rule

If unsure of ID, wait. Green spike? Leave it. Brown spike? Cut it. Research your specific hybrid's behavior.