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Orchid Encyclopedia

Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.

Showing 13 of 80 species

Angraecum© Diogo Correia / Public domain

Angraecum

Advanced

A white-flowered orchid from Madagascar, famous as Darwin's orchid for its long spur.

OrchidAngraecumWhite

Anoectochilus

Advanced

A jewel orchid with golden net-like patterns covering the leaves, ideal for terrariums.

OrchidJewel OrchidGold Net

Bulbophyllum Phalaenopsis

Advanced

One of the largest Bulbophyllum species with huge leaves and uniquely scented flowers, popular among collectors.

OrchidBulbophyllumLarge

Dracula Orchid

Advanced

Famous for monkey face-like flowers, a highland orchid requiring cool and humid conditions.

OrchidDraculaMonkey Face
Grammatophyllum

Grammatophyllum

Advanced

One of the world's largest orchids, called Tiger Orchid for its leopard-patterned large flowers.

OrchidGrammatophyllumWorld Largest

Masdevallia

Advanced

A highland orchid with distinctive triangular flowers, preferring cool and humid conditions.

OrchidMasdevalliaHighland

Odontoglossum

of the

Advanced

A cool-growing orchid from South American highlands with beautifully patterned flowers on long spikes.

OrchidOdontoglossumCool

Paphiopedilum Rothschildianum

Paphiopedilum rothschildianum

Advanced

Called the King of Orchids, a large Paphiopedilum with impressive spreading striped flowers.

OrchidPaphiopedilumKing of Orchids
Renanthera© William Jackson Hooker (1785—1865) del. / Public domain

Renanthera

Advanced

A large Vanda relative with numerous vivid red flowers in sprays, preferring strong light.

OrchidRenantheraRed

Sophronitis

Advanced

A tiny orchid with vivid red flowers, important in Cattleya hybridization.

OrchidSophronitisRed

Vanda

Advanced

Famous for vivid blue-purple blooms, an epiphytic orchid typically grown hanging with exposed roots.

OrchidVandaBlue

Vanda Coerulea

Vanda coerulea

Advanced

The quintessential Blue Orchid, with the clearest blue considered the most beautiful in orchids.

OrchidVandaBlue

Vanda Sanderiana

Vanda sanderiana

Advanced

A large-flowered Vanda from the Philippines known as Waling-Waling, key parent in hybridization.

OrchidVandaLarge Flower

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.