Types of orchids

Orchids are some of the most fascinating and diverse flowers in the world. Types of orchids and their names impress with their variety and beauty. In this article, we will take a closer look at the most famous types of orchids, as well as rare species listed in the red book, such as insect-trap orchids and other unique representatives of this flower family. We will share photos and names of orchid types, discuss rare and endangered species, and how to protect and grow them at home.

Types of orchids and their names

How many types of orchids are there? There are more than 25,000 species of orchids in nature, making them one of the largest families of flowering plants. Each type of orchid has its own characteristics, including flower shape, color, and habitat.

I. Popular orchid species for home growing

1. Phalaenopsis (phalaenopsis)

Origin: southeast asia, australia.
Characteristics:

• The most popular orchid species for indoor cultivation.
• Long blooming period (up to 6 months).
• Flowers resemble butterfly wings.
• Wide range of colors, from white to bright purple.

2. Dendrobium (dendrobium)

Origin: southeast asia, pacific islands.
Characteristics:

• Over 1,500 species.
• Blooms last several weeks.
• Requires cool conditions in winter.
• Often fragrant flowers.

3. Cattleya (cattleya)

Origin: central and south america.
Characteristics:

• Large, bright, fragrant flowers.
• Waxy, thick petals.
• Blooms 1-2 times a year.
• Requires high light levels, making care more challenging.

4. Cambria (cambria)

Origin: hybrid species.
Characteristics:

• Bright flowers with intricate patterns.
• Suitable for indoor growing.
• Blooms several times a year.

5. Vanda (vanda)

Origin: south asia.
Characteristics:

• Large, brightly colored flowers with deep shades.
• Requires plenty of light and high humidity.
• Blooms up to three times a year.

II. Exotic and rare orchid species

1. Monkey orchid (dracula simia)

Origin: andes mountains (ecuador, peru).
Characteristics:

• Flowers resemble a monkey's face.
• Prefers cool, humid conditions.

2. Lady’s slipper orchid (paphiopedilum)

Origin: southeast asia.
Characteristics:

• Flower resembles a lady’s slipper.
• Often grown in collections.
• Requires moderate lighting.

3. Hammer orchid (drakaea glyptodon)

Origin: australia.
Characteristics:

• Unusual flower shape mimicking a female wasp for pollination.
• Blooms for several weeks.

4. Bucket orchid (coryanthes speciosa)

Origin: central and south america.
Characteristics:

• Bucket-shaped flowers filled with liquid.
• Attracts bees for pollination.

5. Ghost orchid (dendrophylax lindenii)

Origin: florida, cuba, caribbean islands.
Characteristics:

• Leafless, photosynthesizes through its roots.
• Considered one of the rarest orchids in the world.

III. Types of orchids by habitat

1. Terrestrial orchids

Growing on the ground, rooted in soil.
Examples: bletilla, calanthe, pleione.

2. Epiphytic orchids

Growing on trees, using them as support.
Examples: phalaenopsis, dendrobium, vanda.

3. Lithophytic orchids

Growing on rocks and cliffs.
Examples: cattleya, laelia.

IV. Orchids for collectors

• Masdevallia coccinea (queen of the andes): a rare andean species with bright flowers.

• Vanda coerulea (blue vanda): famous for its striking blue blooms.

• Renanthera imschootiana (flame orchid): an epiphyte with long red petals.

Indoor orchid types

Photos and names of indoor orchid types will help you choose the right variety for your interior and growing conditions.

1. Phalaenopsis (phalaenopsis)

Origin: southeast asia, australia.
Characteristics:

• The most common indoor orchid species.
• Blooms for up to 6 months a year.
• Petals resemble butterfly wings.
• Color range: white, pink, purple, yellow.

Care:

• Partial shade, moderate watering.
• Ideal temperature: +18…+25°C.

2. Dendrobium (dendrobium)

Origin: southeast asia, australia, oceania.
Characteristics:

• Over 1,500 species.
• Flowers last up to 8 weeks.
• Includes fragrant varieties.
• Popular variety: dendrobium nobile.

Care:

• Bright spot, avoid direct sunlight.
• Winter dormancy period.
• Temperature: +15…+22°C.

3. Cattleya (cattleya)

Origin: central and south america.
Characteristics:

• Large, bright flowers with waxy petals.
• Strong pleasant fragrance.
• Blooms once or twice a year.

Care:

• Bright indirect light.
• Regular watering during growth.
• Temperature: +18…+25°C.

4. Cambria (cambria)

Origin: hybrid species.
Characteristics:

• Bright flowers with unusual patterns.
• Suitable for beginner growers.
• Blooms several times a year.

Care:

• Partial shade or bright indirect light.
• Moderate watering.
• Temperature: +18…+24°C.

5. Vanda (vanda)

Origin: south asia.
Characteristics:

• Flowers in rich shades from purple to blue.
• Blooms up to three times a year.
• Open root system.

Care:

• Requires plenty of light.
• High humidity (70-90%).
• Watering by soaking roots.

6. Lady’s slipper orchid (paphiopedilum)

Origin: asia, india.
Characteristics:

• Flowers resemble a lady’s slipper.
• Blooms for several months.
• Does not require bright light.

Care:

• Moderate lighting.
• Consistent moisture.
• Temperature: +18…+22°C.

7. Zygopetalum (zygopetalum)

Origin: south america.
Characteristics:

• Bright flowers with unique patterns.
• Strong fragrance.
• Blooms in winter and spring.

Care:

• Partial shade, moderate watering.
• Temperature: +16…+24°C.

8. Miltonia (miltonia)

Origin: south america.
Characteristics:

• Petals resemble pansies.
• Strong floral scent.
• Blooms twice a year.

Care:

• Partial shade, avoid direct sunlight.
• High humidity.
• Temperature: +18…+22°C.

9. Laelia (laelia)

Origin: central and south america.
Characteristics:

• Large, bright flowers.
• Often hybridized with cattleyas.
• Easily adapts to home conditions.

Care:

• Bright light.
• Water when the substrate dries.
• Temperature: +20…+25°C.

10. Masdevallia (masdevallia)

Origin: andes, peru, colombia.
Characteristics:

• Bright flowers with elongated petals.
• Prefers cool conditions.
• Requires high humidity.

Care:

• Bright indirect light.
• Humidity: 70-80%.
• Temperature: +10…+18°C.

Rare and endangered orchid species

Rare orchid species, such as the insect-trap orchid, are true jewels of nature. A rare orchid species listed in the red book requires special attention and protection, as their population is declining due to the destruction of natural habitats. Preserving such species is an important task for botanists and ecologists around the world.

Conclusion

Orchids are incredibly diverse and beautiful plants that can decorate any garden or home. Orchid types and their names help us better understand the diversity that exists within this family. From popular types like phalaenopsis and vanda to rare and endangered varieties, each orchid is unique and deserves attention.

If you want to decorate your home or garden, consider indoor orchid types, which are not only beautiful but also relatively easy to care for. For those interested in botany and conservation, studying rare orchid species listed in the red book can be both fascinating and important. Orchids are truly the queens of the plant world, and each type deserves care and attention.