Our Architects have many passions. Leah Penza, Architectural Associate at PBA, has been collecting and rescuing orchids for a few years. Her interest started with a large pink Phalaenopsis. Once the flowers fell off, she thought the plant was dying. However, after doing a little research Leah discovered that such flower cycles are normal for orchids, and she began collecting more so she could enjoy a constant arrangement of alternating blooming flowers. After a visit to her grandma's house, Leah spotted a sad-looking plant sitting outside and took it home to bring back to life. Since then, rescues have been her favorite because of the complete surprise when flowers bloom.
A little care, the right sun, room temperature water for hydration (never ice!), and a lot of patience, are keys to grow bigger and better flowers.
After collecting common Phalaenopsis orchids of many different colors, Leah recently started to expand her collection by searching for more exotic varieties. Her collection now includes one each of Epicyclia, Oncidium, Mitoniopsis, Dendrobium, and Cattleya orchids. She is now on the hunt for the elusive Jewel orchid which is adorned with graphic lightning bolt leaves. She admires the rich colors and patterns, the long elegant stems, and the pronounced flowers that distinguish orchids from other flowering plants. Leah says that although she is near capacity on her "orchid shelf,” that will not deter her from future rescues.
Learn more about Leah Penza here.