Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 4 of 140 species
© sunoochi from Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan / CC BY 2.0Atsumori-so
Cypripedium macranthos var. speciosum
Japan's atsumori-so, bearing a large red-purple pouched flower at the top of the stem. It grows in grassland and open woods in cold parts of Hokkaido and Honshu and is designated a Specified Class I Nationally Rare Species; plants on sale are artificially propagated.
© Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0Austral Ladies' Tresses
Spiranthes australis
A small orchid of lawns, banks and other familiar grassland. Tiny pink flowers spiral up a slender spike, the twisted spike giving it its Japanese name. Left- and right-handed spirals occur in roughly equal numbers, and white and other variant forms exist.
© snotch from Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan / CC BY 2.0Frail Cypripedium
Cypripedium debile
A tiny Cypripedium that spreads two rounded, heart-shaped leaves horizontally and hangs a flower only 1-2 cm across beneath them. Because the flower sits just above the ground, it is easy to miss without lifting the leaves.
© Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0Japanese Cypripedium
Cypripedium japonicum
A Cypripedium with two large fan-shaped leaves held opposite each other, between which a large pouched flower faces sideways. The white lip is patterned purple-brown, and it forms large colonies on the floor of bamboo and cedar woods.
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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.