Purple Leaves on Phalaenopsis: Light Stress, Scale, or Something Else?

Your new Phalaenopsis has purplish discoloration on middle leaves (not oldest or newest). You have it in an east window. Later, you notice flying insects and hard "dots" on those leaves. You ask about using Schultz indoor insecticide (pyrethrins, canola oil).

Purple Coloration Usually Means Light/Temperature Stress

Reddish-purple tones often indicate light levels or temperatures slightly too high for Phalaenopsis. Retailers don't optimize long-term conditions. In proper home care (east window, 65–85°F), new leaves should be yellow-green.

Those "Hard Dots" Are Likely Scale Insects

Test with a cotton swab and alcohol—if they come off, it's scale. Treatment:

1. Remove visible scale with alcohol swabs.
2. Unpot; rinse entire plant (roots and leaves) with water.
3. Discard old mix; clean pot thoroughly.
4. Spray plant (including roots) with insecticide (e.g., "Eight" or Schultz).
5. Repot in fresh orchid mix.
6. Monitor for crawlers (tiny mobile nymphs) for weeks.

Insecticide Choice

Schultz (pyrethrins + oil) may work. "Eight" is also effective. The key is thorough coverage and follow-up—scale has a life cycle that requires persistence.