With over 100,000 kinds of purebreds and hybrids, and about 800 new species added each year, Orchids, scientifically known as Orchidaceae, are the biggest family of flowering plants. The average layman would have a mind-boggling time in the attempt to classify and learn all the types and kinds. A more practical, and less intimidating approach is to familiarize oneself with the more popular types of Orchids. This way, an Orchid lover can focus more on the appreciation of the blooms and save himself a lot of time and trouble.
Arguably, Cattleyas are the most popular type of Orchid. This is the type that is most often mentioned when the subject of Orchids come up. Recognizable for their large blooms, Cattleyas also emit a slight, delicate aroma that endears it to many florists and Orchid lovers alike. Because of its variety of colors ( they come in all colors except black and blue) and long bloom life, the Cattleya is popular choice for corsages and bouquets.
The Dendrobrium is another well-known Orchid. Consisting of 1200 species, this bloom grows throughout the Philippines, New Guinea, New Zealand and Australia. The Dendrobrium is also known for its large plant, and come in all sorts of colors and varieties.
Known as the “moth orchid” attributed to its wing-like petals, the Phalaenopsis is an orchid of about 60 species. Its large flowers resembling moths in flight, the Phalaenopsis grows throughout Southeast Asia to Northern Australia. These are good plants to keep in warmer homes as the flowers bloom their full glory for weeks at a time. Phalaeopsis come in a good variety of patterns and shades, as there are striped kinds, spotted kinds and hues ranging from purple, pink, white, yellow and red.
Oncidiums are Orchids with a distinct “callous” found in the lower lip. They are further distinguished by the presence of column wing-like structures, and pseudobulbs containing about 1 to 3 leaves. The Oncidium’s blooms come in white, pink, yellow and red. One may observe a ruffled edge to these flower’s petals. Some florists also refer to Oncidiums as “Spray Orchids”.
The possibilities of Orchids are endless. These are only a small sampling of the wide variety that this plant family has. No matter what one’s lifestyle, temperament, aesthetic or even purpose may be, he is sure to find an Orchid that will suit his needs and be ultimately delighted with!
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