Phalaenopsis equestris - pale green leaves
 

I purchased this orchid among other ones about a month ago from Oak Hill Gardens. When it arrived its leaves were pale green with waxy surface and its spike was dried up. I thought it was due to shipping and decided to not bother the vendor. The leaves are still the same color so I thought I would ask all of you if you think it is normal. My previous equestris' leaves were typical color and more matte unlike this one. Here is a picture of it (the one with a tag) next to other orchids for comparison.

Attachment 69628

I checked its roots and they look good. It is starting to grow either a root or a spike (to small to tell right now).

I have an equesris alba whose leaves are like yours much paler than my pink one. I also received a Phal parishii not long ago with lighter coloured leaves... I don't think you should worry too much as long as the roots look good and continue growing.
I look forward to seeing how it does in the future.

I agree with Nenella. If the roots are ok, and it's growing, I wouldn't worry about the leaves. It might have been exposed to a little too much light, or it just might be the usual leaf color for this particular type of equestris. Take care of it, and post the photos of future blooms :)
By the way, if you are still worried, or just have an uneasy feeling about this plant, then I'd email the vendor, just to let them know about your concern. In case something IS wrong with this plant, and you lose it very soon, that'll prove that the problem existed from the moment you got it.

Thanks Nenella and Lana. I didn't think theres was much to worry but it is nice to hear reassurances. It would be neat if it turned out to be alba variety. I guess I won't know for sure if it is until it flowers and grows new leaves.

I've had my equestris for about 4 years and the leaves have always been a pale green.

Bill

Interesting, both my equestris 'Red' and 'Orange' have leaves as dark as the large plant on the top of the picture, and just the 'Orange' has some silver mottling on it. The 'Red' has solid green leaves.

I have 3 alba types, and all have the normal medium green leaves of the other equestris.
I got a Phal pallens nearly a year ago that was very pale. I thought it was because of high light, but it never darkened. It did spike, but it is not growing otherwise. It is the only Phal (out of the 35-40 I have) that has not grown a new leaf, or new roots this spring...

That's interesting. I wonder what can cause that. Perhaps I got a similar 'dud' like yours.

I'm thinking that maybe mine has a deficiency of some sort. I fertilize, but uptake by the plant can be blocked for various reasons. I'm going to try watering with Epsom salt, magnesium deficiency does cause pale leaves.

Camille, I have never done the 'epsom salt' watering although I have some. I'd like to try. Could you tell me what quantity ES/water does one use?