Best Orchids for your Home
Cattleya, Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Ludisia, Oncidium, Paphiopedilum, Phaius, Phalaenopsis, Phragmipedium, Zygopetalum
Orchids belong to one of the two largest plant families (Orchidaceae) which includes about 900 genera and 25,000 species. They can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They are, however, predominantly found in the tropics.
Despite the myth that orchids are fussy and difficult to grow, many orchids are not as delicate as most people think. They can adapt to the temperatures and light conditions found on the average home windowsill and be rewarding indoor plants.
Many orchids are winter bloomers, which makes them even more desirable as houseplants. Orchids are incredibly beautiful. Aside from their beauty, some orchids exude a wonderful fragrance. Their scent can leave an impression greater than the orchid itself. Unlike other houseplants, orchids do not grow in soil. Potting an orchid in the soil is the best way to kill it. Most orchids in the wild are epiphytic - they grow on trees, attaching themselves by thick roots to the sides of the trees or on their branches. They absorb water and nutrients from the air and rain and whatever drips down the tree. They have to survive for weeks, if not months, without rainfall, hoarding water in thick leaves, stems, and roots.
Guide Information
Plant Type | Orchids |
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Plant Family | Cattleya - Orchids, Cymbidium - Boat Orchids, Dendrobium - Orchids, Oncidium - Dancing Lady Orchids, Paphiopedilum - Slipper Orchids, Phalaenopsis- Moth Orchids, Ludisia - Orchids, Phaius - Orchids, Phragmipedium - Slipper Orchids, Zygopetalum - Orchids |
By kimberrywood/Shutterstock
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Guide Information
Plant Type | Orchids |
---|---|
Plant Family | Cattleya - Orchids, Cymbidium - Boat Orchids, Dendrobium - Orchids, Oncidium - Dancing Lady Orchids, Paphiopedilum - Slipper Orchids, Phalaenopsis- Moth Orchids, Ludisia - Orchids, Phaius - Orchids, Phragmipedium - Slipper Orchids, Zygopetalum - Orchids |