Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 80 of 80 species(1–24)
© The original uploader was JoJan at English Wikipedia . ( Original text: Larsen Twins Orchids ) / Public domainAerides
A fragrant epiphytic orchid with foxtail-like spikes from Southeast Asia, related to Vanda.
© Diogo Correia / Public domainAngraecum
A white-flowered orchid from Madagascar, famous as Darwin's orchid for its long spur.
© A.Savin / FALAnoectochilus
A jewel orchid with golden net-like patterns covering the leaves, ideal for terrariums.
Ascocenda
A Vanda x Ascocentrum hybrid, smaller than Vanda with colorful flowers and easier cultivation.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Bifrenaria
A hardy Brazilian orchid with large waxy fragrant flowers, easy for beginners.
© Jean-Jacques MILAN / CC BY-SA 3.0Bletilla
Bletilla striata
The easiest orchid to grow, a terrestrial species common in Japanese gardens with purple-pink spring flowers.
© Gaussian_venation / CC BY-SA 4.0Brassavola
An epiphytic orchid with intensely fragrant white flowers at night, known as Lady of the Night.
Brassia
Called Spider Orchid for its long spider-like petals, popular for its unique shape.
Bulbophyllum
The largest orchid genus with 2000+ species, popular among enthusiasts for bizarre flower shapes.
© Elena Gaillard from New York, USA / CC BY 2.0Bulbophyllum Phalaenopsis
One of the largest Bulbophyllum species with huge leaves and uniquely scented flowers, popular among collectors.
© BotBln / CC BY-SA 3.0Calanthe
Calanthe discolor
A terrestrial orchid native to Japanese mountains, with elegant spring flower spikes.
© Larsen Twins Orchids / AttributionCatasetum
A unique orchid with separate male/female flowers that shoots pollinia, with deciduous dormancy.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Cattleya
Known as the Queen of Orchids, prized for large fragrant blooms and stunning colors.
Cattleya Bowringiana
Cattleya bowringiana
A Cattleya species with clusters of purple-pink autumn flowers, prolific, gorgeous and easy to grow.
© sunoochi / CC BY 2.0Cattleya Intermedia
Cattleya intermedia
A Brazilian Cattleya species with many color forms including coerulea and aquinii.
Cattleya Labiata
Cattleya labiata
The first Cattleya species discovered, with a large lip and vibrant autumn blooms.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Cattleya Maxima
Cattleya maxima
A large Cattleya from Ecuador-Peru with lavender blooms and beautifully frilled lips.
© KENPEI / CC BY-SA 3.0Cattleya Mossiae
Cattleya mossiae
Venezuela's national flower, spring-blooming with large frilled lips, known as Mother's Day orchid.
© Arne Larsen (?) / CC BY-SA 3.0Cattleya Trianae
Cattleya trianae
Colombia's national flower, winter-blooming with large flowers and beautiful lip coloration.
© sunoochi from Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan / CC BY 2.0Cattleya Walkeriana
Cattleya walkeriana
A compact, fragrant Cattleya species from Brazil with sweet scent and charming blooms.
© Eric in SF / CC BY-SA 3.0Coelogyne
A hardy epiphytic orchid with white fragrant flowers and beautiful pendant flower spikes.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Cycnoches
Called Swan Orchid for its swan-neck column, a fragrant orchid with deciduous habit.
© Yercaud-elango / CC BY-SA 4.0Cymbidium
Cymbidium spp.
One of Japan's most popular orchids. Grand flower sprays lasting weeks. Notably cold-hardy. Grow outdoors in direct sun spring-fall; summer heat initiates flower buds.
© Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0Cymbidium Goeringii
Cymbidium goeringii
A wild Cymbidium species native to Japan, blooming with a single flower in early spring.
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Orchid FAQ
- How much do orchids cost?
- Mini Phalaenopsis cost 1,000-5,000 yen, large Phalaenopsis 5,000-30,000 yen, Cattleya 3,000-20,000 yen, and rare species orchids tens of thousands of yen depending on type and size.
- Can beginners grow orchids?
- Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium are easy to manage indoors and recommended for beginners. Place in bright indirect light and water when the moss dries out for long-lasting blooms.
- How long do orchids live?
- With proper care, orchids can be grown for decades. Phalaenopsis bloom annually and can be propagated by division. Many enthusiasts have plants over 10 years old.
- What should I check when buying orchids?
- Check that roots are green and healthy, leaves are firm, and there are no disease spots. Choosing a blooming plant helps you see what to expect and is easier for beginners.
- How do I get orchids to rebloom?
- Cut the flower spike above a node after blooming and keep in bright shade. A day-night temperature difference in autumn encourages flower spike formation. Consistent fertilizing and watering are key.