Orchid Encyclopedia
Encyclopedia of popular orchid species with care guides, traits, and flowering tips.
Showing 5 of 140 species
© Alpsdake / CC BY-SA 4.0Grass-leaved Hemipilia
Hemipilia graminifolia
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.
© 日:Jnn / CC BY 2.1 jpIwa-chidori
Hemipilia keiskei
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.
© Qwert1234 / Public domainJapanese Pogonia
Pogonia japonica
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.
Takane Calanthe (natural hybrid)
Calanthe discolor × Calanthe striata
A group of Calanthe thought to arise from natural crossing between C. discolor and C. striata. Plants are intermediate and very variable, many resembling C. discolor with a yellow lip; flower colour differs by plant.
© Dinkum / CC BY-SA 3.0Yellow Calanthe
Calanthe striata
A showy Calanthe bearing many large, bright yellow flowers from late winter to spring. Both flowers and plant are larger than C. discolor, the blooms have a citrus-like scent, and it is a key parent of Calanthe hybrids.
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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.