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Types of Orchids - The Essential Facts
Although there are approximately 25,000 species and more than 100,000 hybrids, it is a significant and somewhat surprising fact that there are only three types of orchids. These being: The Terrestrial, Epiphyte and the Lithophyte orchid that attaches itself to rocks and stones. Terrestrial orchids have a conventional underground root system similar to any other type of common plant, while the Epiphyte has a fleshy aerial root system that is used to attach itself to the trunks and branches of trees and poles. The Epiphyte is not parasitic; that is, it does not nourish itself from the host that it is attached to, but rather nourishes itself from the accumulated decaying organic matter that is found among the roots and branches of its host. The Lithophyte orchids grow on exposed ledges and rocky outcrops, their root systems absorb nutrients and moisture that is present in the air and also from the decaying organic matter within the rock crevices.
Epiphytic Orchids
The most common Epiphytic orchids are: Dendrobiums, Cybidiums and Phalaenopsis orchids.
Dendrobium orchids are native to South East Asia, Australia, India and Polynesia. Therefore, they prefer a warm high humidity well lit growing environment in order to thrive. There are over 1000 species of Dendrobium orchids and new varieties are still being discovered in the central highlands of New Guinea. Most Dendrobiums are easy to grow especially the hybrid varieties as they are more hardy and able to survive in a wider range of climatic conditions.
Cymbidium orchids are native to the alpine regions of Central and Southeast Asia, New Zealand and Australia. Therefore, Cymbidiums thrive in a cooler climate with strong light and shade. There are 44 species but quite literally thousands of hybrid varieties. They produce as many as 30 large attractive flowers per spike in a diverse array of colors and will generally flower for up to three months. They are generally highly tolerant of extreme temperature variations but prefer frost free cool nights and warm daytime temperatures.
Phalaenopsis orchids also known as ‘Moth Orchids' are native to India, Southeast Asia, New Guinea and Australia. They thrive in a warm environment although, there must be variation between the day and night time temperatures or they won't flower. They prefer a shady area and must not be exposed to direct sunlight. They are very popular due to their big vibrant flowers that can bloom twice per year or sometimes more and come in every known color except blue. They are very strong plants and able to survive even when not maintained properly. They are therefore, good for beginners to grow.
Terrestrial Orchids
The most common Terrestrial orchids are: Paphiopedilums and Spiranthes Cernua orchids.
Paphiopedilum orchids also known as lady slipper orchids are native to India, southern China, New Guinea and the Philippines. There are over 1300 hybrid varieties of this genus and are available in a myriad of colors, sizes and shapes. They are very hardy plants that prefer a shady area with low to medium light, they do not like direct sunlight. They are very easy to grow and may be placed in an East facing window. They generally produce one flower per spike but there are some varieties that have up to ten flowers.
Spiranthes orchids also known as nodding ladies' tresses are native to Eastern North America. They are a hardy plant, easy to maintain and grow well in the garden as well as making excellent house plants. They will produce up to 50 tiny white scented flowers in a spiral formation up the flowering stem, whose fragrance has been described as a cross between vanilla and jasmine.
Lithophyte Orchids
The most common Lithophyte orchids are: Sophronitis and Bulbophyllum orchids. Difficult to grow as a result they are not popular to cultivate.
Sophronitis Orchids are native to the damp forests of Paraguay, Eastern Brazil and Argentina. There are 65 different species of this plant. They like a moist, cool, low light environment and grow well in windows as most of them are compact in size. They produce anywhere between one to eight magnificent flowers which can be yellow, pink, lavender, magenta, orange or red.
Bulbophyllum orchids are native to the Himalayas, South east Asia and the New Guinea Highlands. They prefer a damp, cool, bright light environment, these conditions create problems with fungal growth and a preventative spray will be necessary as well as good air circulation. They grow well in an East facing window as they don't like direct sunlight. They are commonly cultivated for their relatively large and magnificent flowers which in the case of the Bulbophyllum lobbii is 6-8cm across.
There are many different species / hybrids of orchids, scattered across the three basic types; in fact, there are twice as many orchid species as there are birds. It will therefore, not be too difficult to choose an orchid that suits your own personal taste, environment and horticultural skills.
About the Author
Want more important insights on orchid types ? Visit my website at http://www.orchidgrowth.com where you will find lots of helpful tips and information on buying, propagating, cultivating and caring for healthy, thriving orchids.
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