1. The Six Most Popular
Orchid Types
A M R F L O W E R S
2. Orchids are a wonderfully diverse group of flowering plants
that can be found all over the world. The varieties of orchid
flowers are seemingly endless. In terms of commercial
importance, the most commonly cultivated orchids types
can be classified into six major groups.
The following list represents the primary orchids that one
would find as houseplants, in flower arrangements, and
otherwise grown for sale or display. The list is in
alphabetical order.
3. Perhaps the most popular and best
known of the orchids The Cattleyas
have very large showy flowers and are
commonly used in corsages. They have
been highly hybridized and some of
the hybrids are some of the easiest
orchids to grow. They will tolerate a
wide range of conditions but ideally
like bright light, cooler nights, and
medium humidity.
Cattleya
4. These orchids produce long sprays (flower stems)
of 20-30 beautiful flowers, primarily in white or
shades of pink. They are native to the higher
altitude regions of India and Southeast Asia.
They thrive and bloom best with warm days with
high light intensity and significantly cooler night
time temperatures. For this reason, they are
difficult to keep as houseplants but can do very
well in greenhouse conditions. Some species of
Cymbidiums can be kept outdoors in areas that
can supply the high light/warm day/cool night
combination.
Cymbidiums
5. as the
grow in
are most recognizable
slipper" orchids. They
light, moist areas like Northern
These
"lady's
lower
bogs although some species can be
found in tropical parts of Asia. They are
terrestrial orchids that prefer moist soil
that does not dry out. Many of the
Cypripediums can be kept as
houseplants and with their unique pouch-
like flower they make an excellent
addition to any plant collection.
Cypripedium
6. This is one of the largest groups within the
O r c h i d family and within the dedrobiums,
there is wide variation in both the plants
and the flowers. D. nobile and its hybrids
have long, arching flower sprays. They are
expensive orchids available.
among the most popular and least
Like many
tropical orchids they prefer it warm and
humid.
Dendrobium
7. Most varieties of Oncidiums are very
adaptable to home environments and as
such are a good choice for the beginning
orchid keeper. The most well known
Oncidiums are the "Dancing Ladies", so
named for their long sprays of flowers
that are said to resemble ballet dancers.
Oncidium
8. The Vandas include some of the most
beautiful and striking flowers within all of
the orchid types. They come in nearly
every color and a wide variety of sizes.
One of the most attractive characteristics
of the Vandas is that their flowers last a
long time compared to most other orchids.
In addition, some Vanda species will
flower multiple times a year.
Vanda