What are Some Popular Types of Orchids?

Orchids are a beautiful and exotic family of flower. There are many types of orchids, which are categorized by their physical characteristics into genera. People who grow orchids for a hobby or to make a living are often very passionate about doing so, and they have spread that enthusiasm to the greater world by introducing orchids into many households. Some of the most popular types of orchids are the Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, Oncidium Related, and Phalaenopsis.

The Cattleyas have large blooms, which are typically 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) and have a sweet, delicate scent. This, combined with their long bloom life, makes them popular as a cut flower and also makes them one of the most popular types of orchids among florists. Because of this, the Cattleyas have been nicknamed "the corsage orchid."

Dendrobiums are another one of the most popular types of orchids. They are also large plants, growing from 2.5 to 3.5 feet (.76 to 1.07 meters) tall. They bloom in the late summer and early autumn, with flowers that appear in bunches of 8 to 12 and last about two months. Because the Dendrobium genus contains the largest number of orchid species, the Dendrobiums come in a wide variety of colors and shapes.

Another of the popular types of orchids is the Phalaenopsis, which has the nickname "the moth orchid" due to its winglike shape and the fact that its flowers are often white. The flowers do come in a variety of other colors, such as pink, striped pink and white, red and white, spotted pink or purple, and yellow. They are perhaps the most popular of the various types of orchids because they are easy to grow in warm homes, whereas most orchids require cooler temperatures than most humans can live in comfortably.

Oncidiums bloom in great profusion on spikes that are 3 feet (1 meter) or longer. They have the nickname "dancing ladies" because the bottom sepal fans out like a lady's dress during a dance. Their flowers are smaller because each plant produces so many, but they are very showy. They are usually yellow with red-brown spots, but can also be red and white.

Another one of the types of orchids is the Oncidium Related genus, which contains many man-made hybrids. They are called Oncidium Related because they have been produced by crossing Oncidiums with other genera. They vary greatly in size, shape, color, and number of blooms per plant.

The Phalaenopsis, or moth orchid, is highly recommended for beginners due to its resilience and ease of care. It thrives in indoor conditions and blooms for an extended period. The Dendrobium orchid is also popular among novices, as it's adaptable and comes in a variety of colors, making it a versatile choice for home growers.

Orchid bloom frequency and duration vary by species. Phalaenopsis orchids can bloom once a year, with flowers lasting up to three months. Cattleya orchids typically bloom once or twice a year, with each bloom cycle lasting several weeks. Oncidiums have multiple bloom spikes per year, with each spike lasting up to six weeks.

The Paphiopedilum, or lady's slipper orchid, is known for its unique pouch-like lip. The Psychopsis orchid, resembling a butterfly, is another unique variety that attracts attention. The Vanda orchid, with its vibrant colors and large, open blooms, is also a showstopper, often used in high-end floral arrangements and displays.

Yes, many orchids are fragrant. The Cattleya orchid is renowned for its delightful fragrance, which can vary from sweet to spicy. The Miltonia orchid, often called the "pansy orchid," emits a fruity scent, while some Oncidium species are known for their chocolate-like aroma, making them a treat for the senses.

Most popular orchids thrive in bright, indirect light, with temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night. They prefer high humidity levels, around 40-70%, and well-draining potting media. Regular watering is crucial, but allowing the roots to dry slightly between waterings is essential to prevent rot.

Some orchids are indeed rare and can be quite valuable. The Rothschild's Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum rothschildianum), for instance, is one of the rarest and most expensive orchids in the world, often fetching thousands of dollars per plant. Its rarity is due to its specific growing conditions and slow rate of maturation.