Phalaenopsis modesta is a species of orchid endemic to Borneo. The specific epithet modesta, from the Latin modestus, means unassuming, moderate or modest.
Description This epiphytic species is usually found at the base of the phorophytes. The plants have 1–4 elliptic-obovate, glossy, 23 cm long and 6 cm wide leaves. Fragrant, white flowers with purple transverse barring are produced on pendent, branched or unbranched inflorescences. The labellum lacks trichomes. Flowering occurs from September to November and from May to June.Christenson, Eric A. (2001). Phalaenopsis : a monograph. Portland, Oregon: Timber Press. pp. 145–148. ISBN 1604691719.
Ecology Phalaenopsis modesta occurs at elevations of 50–900 m above sea level.
Taxonomy The variety Phalaenopsis modesta var. bella Gruss & Röllke is suspected of being a hybrid of Phalaenopsis javanica and Phalaenopsis modesta. Phalaenopsis modesta is said to be closely related to Phalaenopsis violacea based on floral characteristics.Aziz, S. A., & Sukma, D. (2014). Karakterisasi Morfologi Anggrek Phalaenopsis spp. Spesies Asli Indonesia. Buletin Agrohorti, 2(1), 86–94. This is not supported by genetic evidence.Tsai, Chi-Chu. (2011). Molecular Phylogeny and Biogeography of Phalaenopsis Species. Orchid Biotechnology II. 1-24. 10.1142/9789814327930_0001.
Conservation This species has been categorized as vulnerable (V)Lamb, A. (1992). Orchid conservation in Sabah (Malaysian Borneo): a list of species of botanical and horticultural importance and interest and their conservation status. Botanic Gardens Conservation News, 1(10), 44–47. http://www.jstor.org/stable/24755392
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