This database provides a searchable/sortable list of known and confirmed ploidy information for specific hybrids and cultivars. Photo’s are copyrighted by the specific technician that did the original count and should not be distributed, reposted, or republished without that individual’s written permission. The actual counts and ploidy levels are considered to be public information made available for the benefit of the international orchid community. The current focus has been on Phalaenopsis, but other orchids may be added in the future. This is not an exhaustive list, if you have any questions about orchids not on this list, please drop us a note or post a question on the forums.
Diploid(2n) Phalaenopsis (38 Chromosomes) - normal set of chromosomes, most naturally occuring species are diploids.
Triploid(3n) Phalaenopsis (57 Chromosomes) - hybrid between a Diploid and Tetraploid, Triploids are frequently sterile and future hybridizing with their progeny can become even more problamatic leading to completely sterile dead in breeding lines. So at SDO we always recommend against breeding Triploids.
Tetraploid(4n) Phalaenopsis (76 Chromosomes) - double the normal set of chromosomes. Frequently larger flowers and plants, more vigorous and often more fertile than diploids.