I found a beautiful purple moth orchid on scratch and dent sale at a Grocery Outlet. The double stemmed profusely blooming plant cost all of $6.99, which is about what the pretty pot would have cost all by itself, so I am pretty happy with this find. Unlike the mystery orchid that I rescued from a trash bin, this one, although unnamed, was easy to identify as a Phalaenopsis. I think that as it is an epiphyte, it is going to need very different handling from its water loving cousin.
Phalaenopsis orchids are recommended for beginners because they are supposed to be relatively easy to care for, the blooms can last for months, and they can rebloom up to three times a year.