What causes this flowering pattern? (with pics)

[berkeleysgr8]

So, I've been growing orchids for about 20 years but I've only successfully growing Phals for about the past 10. I've never had a flower spike quite like this one! Usually the flowers on this plant have a splash pattern and on the very edges there are usually areas that are dark maroon and waxy. The color and texture mix is something I've always found particularly appealing. Well, this year I got only one flower that is normal (or "almost normal"- one petal on that bloom is actually mutated and smaller than it should be) the rest are thick and waxy blooms. Does anyone know what might have caused this? I haven't been using any plant hormones or new products on my plant. It's in the same position where it has previously bloomed (so the light should be the same as usual). Any tips, advice or thoughts would be appreciated!

[bearded orchid]

No clue really. Though, if it's a complex hybrid then that could very well explain the deviation. I've had a couple of my Phals and seen others as well that have done some wacky things.

Don't get mad at me or anything, but I think I like the waxy new blooms better

[berkeleysgr8]

I have a weakness for waxy blooms... I just wish the flowers were all the same (either waxy, dark blooms or the usual splash pattern). It's definitely interesting! *smile*

[Hummer344]

I think it has reverted to one of the parents, or its an unstable clone. Unstable meaning that you never know what its going to throw out as blooms. You don't have any choices but to roll with what it gives you.

[plantloverlisa]

Variety is the spice of life! It is still beautiful.

[11Orchid126]

Just think! You have a great conversation piece! What more could you want from a plant than it throws out a spectacular flower out of the blue?

[janet_a]

what's the name of the plant? (and i think it's cool, too. )

[berkeleysgr8]

This plant is a Phal Everspring King x Dtps Sogo Davis.

I think this is the fourth round of flowers since I've had the plant... and it's never done this! It will interesting to see what the blooms look like on the next spike. This year it was growing next to another waxy Phal and I couldn't help but wonder if there was some sort of influence going on there (though I don't know biologically how that could happen by being in close proximity).

[wisechild9]

I have a NOID phal that has changed pattern on the same stem. Photos have been uploaded here:
http://www.orchidgeeks.com/forum/mem...ng-blooms.html

I think it's pretty interesting.