Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 6 of 140 species
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Besse's Phragmipedium
Phragmipedium besseae
A Phragmipedium that grows on wet cliffs and rocks on the eastern slopes of the Andes. It is known for scarlet-red flowers, a colour new to the genus, and drew attention as a breeding parent after its description in 1981.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Concolor Paphiopedilum
Paphiopedilum concolor
A small Brachypetalum slipper orchid of limestone rocks. On a short stem it carries one or two rounded cream to pale yellow flowers finely speckled with red-purple, and the flowers have an apple-like scent.
© User:BotBln / CC BY-SA 3.0Egg-in-a-nest Orchid
Paphiopedilum bellatulum
A Brachypetalum slipper orchid whose round white flower, spotted purple, sits just above the leaves, earning it the name egg-in-a-nest orchid. Its dark green leaves are patterned white above and purple beneath, and it grows on limestone.
© Averater / CC BY 3.0Queen Victoria's Dendrobium
Dendrobium victoriae-reginae
A Dendrobium with rare violet-blue flowers, darker at the tips and white at the centre. Endemic to mossy Philippine forests at 1,300-2,700 m, it needs cool, moist conditions all year.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Scarlet Cattleya
Cattleya coccinea
A miniature Cattleya under 10 cm tall from the mountain forests of Brazil's Atlantic coast. It bears brilliant scarlet flowers 4-6 cm across, remarkably large for the plant. It was formerly known as Sophronitis coccinea.
© Andi S. / CC BY 2.0Violet Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis violacea
A small moth orchid species from lowland Sumatra and nearby areas. A short zigzag stem opens violet-dominated flowers about 3.5 cm across one after another, with a strong spicy fragrance.
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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.