Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 33 of 140 species(25–33)
© Arne and Bent Larsen, Haarby, Denmark / CC BY-SA 2.5 dkPaphiopedilum Insigne
Paphiopedilum insigne
One of the easiest Paphiopedilums with green-brown winter flowers, relatively cold tolerant.
Paphiopedilum Maudiae
Paphiopedilum Maudiae
A popular Paphiopedilum hybrid with green-white stripes, easy and perfect for starting a collection.
Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis spp.
Japan's most beloved gift orchid with butterfly-like blooms lasting weeks. Epiphytic, typically grown in sphagnum moss. Proper care allows re-blooming multiple times a year.
© AtonX / CC BY-SA 3.0Phalaenopsis Equestris
Phalaenopsis equestris
A small Philippine species Phalaenopsis that branches and blooms with small flowers for a long period.
© Guillaume Paumier / CC BY-SA 3.0Phalaenopsis Sogo Yukidian 'V3'
Phalaenopsis Sogo Yukidian 'V3'
'V3' is a named clone of Phalaenopsis Sogo Yukidian, a hybrid raised by the breeder Sogo and registered with the Royal Horticultural Society in 1998. It is sold as a large white-flowered moth orchid.
© D. Joshua Zampini / CC BY 3.0Prosthechea Cochleata
Prosthechea cochleata
A unique orchid with upside-down octopus-like flowers, Belize's national flower, blooming nearly year-round.
© pinay06 / CC BY 2.5Spathoglottis
Spathoglottis plicata
A hardy terrestrial orchid from Southeast Asia with purple-pink flowers lasting a long time outdoors.
© Averater / CC BY-SA 3.0Taiwan Pleione
Pleione formosana
A Pleione native to Taiwan and south-eastern China that flowers in spring from round pseudobulbs. The pink flowers have a white, fringed lip marked brown inside. Among Pleione species it copes comparatively well with heat.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Two-edged Laelia
Laelia anceps
A Mexican Laelia that holds several large flowers with pale lavender petals and a deep crimson lip at the top of stems over 60 cm long. Hardy to drought and cold, it is a tough winter-flowering species.
Related Content
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.