Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 11 of 140 species
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Amethyst-lipped Cattleya
Cattleya amethystoglossa
A tall Brazilian Cattleya that bears clusters of 10-30 pale, purple-spotted flowers atop its long pseudobulbs, with a vivid magenta lip and a pleasant scent.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Cattleya
Known as the Queen of Orchids, prized for large fragrant blooms and stunning colors.
© 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.
© Orchi / CC BY-SA 3.0Christmas Cattleya
Cattleya percivaliana
A large-flowered species Cattleya from rocky highlands of Venezuela and Colombia. It bears one leaf per pseudobulb and a richly coloured purple-red lip, is also called the Christmas Cattleya, and varies widely in colour.
© Allthingsnative / CC BY-SA 4.0Orange Guarianthe
Guarianthe aurantiaca
A sturdy species from Mexico and Central America bearing clusters of orange flowers about 2.5 cm across. Formerly a Cattleya, it is still often sold as Cattleya aurantiaca.
© Elena Gaillard from New York, USA / CC BY 2.0Purpurata Cattleya
Cattleya purpurata
A large-flowered Cattleya from southern Brazil whose deep purple-red lip stands out against white or pale pink petals. Long known as Laelia purpurata, it is sold as many named forms such as alba and carnea.
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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.