Tucked away in Ulu Yam, Selangor, is a tranquil orchid farm that offers a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Spanning some 2.6 hectares, World of Phalaenopsis is the largest orchid grower of the genus in Malaysia.
This picturesque place is perfect for rest and respite. Visitors can admire and buy these beautiful blooms – alongside other plants such as anthuriums, caladiums, and ferns – and enjoy a delicious meal at the quaint Florescence café.
A nearby pond has water lilies bobbing gently on the surface, while ducks can be seen lazing in the cool air, oblivious to the delighted stares of patrons, who come by even on weekday afternoons.
Recalling their early days, executive director Darren Yeo says Phalaenopsis orchids were not very well known in 2006. “It was a very challenging period as we had to educate the public about these flowers, and we did a lot of roadshows,” the 38-year-old recalls.
They also faced a fair amount of scepticism. “People thought this type of orchid could not be grown here. We couldn’t blame them because back then, the most popular variants in Malaysia were ‘dendrobium’, ‘mokara’ and ‘vanda’,” he tells FMT.
Today, their mission of educating the public continues and Yeo is thankful social media has allowed them to reach more people.
He also reveals an interesting trend: “In the beginning, flowers did not get much interest from the younger community. However, over time, their interest has been growing.
“Young people would make a trip here with their family because their parents love orchids.”
Realising this shift, Yeo decided the business needed to evolve as well.
“We want people to experience what it’s like to grow plants – eating and holding events around the orchids,” he says in explaining the addition of the café, which opened in 2020, and an event hall for activities such as school visits.
“Our goal is to bring everyone back to nature.”
Demand increased over time, especially as orchids became more popular as gifts, and the business subsequently opened boutiques in Kuala Lumpur – at Bangsar Shopping Centre, Gardens Mall, The Linc, and Bangsar South – to make these flowers more readily available to customers.
As for what makes these orchids unique, Yeo cites the ease of care, as well as the intensity, size and shape of the petals. Among the colours available at the farm are purple, white, orange, yellow, and pink.
For those who are tempted to buy the orchids but are apprehensive about looking after them, Yeo shares some tips. “They shouldn’t be directly under the sun, and need to be placed in a shaded and cool area with good air circulation.”
The farm uses a growing medium known as sphagnum moss, which retains water and fertiliser for longer periods, so the orchids only have to be watered once a week.
Looking ahead, Yeo says there are plans to open a souvenir shop, as well as dedicated orchid gardens for patrons to spend time in and take pictures.
In the meantime, he invites people to visit the farm and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of being amidst nature.
“I hope they will find peace, wind down, have a good time, and develop an interest in these orchids,” he adds.
Learn more about World of Phalaenopsis on its website, Facebook, and Instagram profiles.
World of Phalaenopsis
Lot 1017, Kampung Sungai Kamin
Ulu Yam Baru
44300 Batang Kali, Selangor
Contact: 03-60751133 / 011-72709880
Business hours: 9am to 5pm daily