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Orchid Encyclopedia

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

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OrchidSpeciesFragrantDendrobiumCattleyaPaphiopedilumPhalaenopsisWildflowerJapanese native orchidHardyEpiphyteMiniatureTerrestrialCalantheJapanese Native

Showing 5 of 140 species

Grass-leaved Hemipilia© Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0

Grass-leaved Hemipilia

Hemipilia graminifolia

Intermediate

A small terrestrial orchid of damp rock faces in the hills of Japan and southern Korea. Between narrow leaves it bears a few to dozens of small purple-pink flowers, and many cultivars with different lip markings and colours have been raised.

OrchidUcho-ranWildflower
Iwa-chidori© 日:Jnn / CC BY 2.1 jp

Iwa-chidori

Hemipilia keiskei

Intermediate

A tiny terrestrial orchid endemic to Japan, growing in rock crevices in gorges from central Honshu westwards and on Shikoku. About 10 cm tall, it opens pink-purple flowers about 1 cm across in April and May and is nicknamed the fairy of the gorges.

OrchidIwa-chidoriWildflower
Japanese Gastrochilus© M108t / CC BY 4.0

Japanese Gastrochilus

Gastrochilus japonicus

Intermediate

A small orchid growing on the trunks and branches of evergreen trees. It has leathery leaves like those of an evergreen oak in two rows and in summer opens clusters of pale yellow flowers about 1 cm across; the pouched lip is marked red-purple inside.

OrchidKashinoki-ranJapanese native orchid
Japanese Pogonia© Qwert1234 / Public domain

Japanese Pogonia

Pogonia japonica

Intermediate

A small terrestrial orchid of sunny wetlands and moors. A slender stem bears a single leaf and, in early summer, one sideways-facing flower in the soft pink-purple of the crested ibis (toki). The inside of the lip is densely covered in fleshy hairs.

OrchidTokisoWildflower
Nago Orchid© snotch from Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan / CC BY 2.0

Nago Orchid

Phalaenopsis japonica

Intermediate

A small epiphytic orchid native to Japan, named after Mount Nago in Okinawa where it was found. It carries thick, leathery leaves in two rows and in early summer to summer opens pale greenish-white flowers with red-purple bars on the lateral sepals and a lemony scent.

OrchidNago-ranJapanese native orchid
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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.