Orchid Flower: Details of History, Types, and Interesting Facts

Orchids are some of the most diverse and beautiful flowers in the world. The unique shapes and bright colours of the orchids have fascinated people for centuries. This guide covers the history, types, and cultural significance of orchids. This blog helps you to know the reason for appreciating these stunning orchid plants.

History and Origin of Orchid Flowers

The word “orchid” comes from the Greek word “orchis,” which means testicle. This is because the root tubers of some orchids look like testicles. Orchid plants have been around for thousands of years. They grow easily on many continents, except in cold places. The initial hybridisation of the orchids took place during the 1850s. Before 4000 years, orchids were used in traditional medicine in Japan and China.

During the Victorian era, orchids became popular and symbolised wealth and luxury. These beautiful flowers become famous in scenes in detective stories. Today, orchids are grown and loved around the world. With more than 30,000 varieties, different types of orchids have become the most favourite plants among gardeners. The presentation of the famous orchid flower types is mentioned below.

Types of Orchid Plants

Two types of orchids are epiphytic and terrestrial in nature. Terrestrial orchids grow on the ground whereas epiphytic ones anchor to other plants. Maximum numbers of orchid plants require bright indirect orchids, otherwise, they need to be kept in LED light.

Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid)

Phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchids, are very popular and easy to care for. Their large wholesome blooms look like moth wings. They are perfect for beginners because they can thrive in normal household conditions. These flowers bloom for several months. Phals give you the benefit of year-round blooming. They also make the room a most fragrant place to be loved enough to live peacefully.

Dendrobium Orchids

Dendrobium orchids are very diverse, with over 1,200 species. They come in many sizes, shapes, and colours. Dendrobiums usually have slender stems and produce multiple flowers per stem. Dendrobium flowers bloom for 6-8 weeks. Even some species can bloom multiple times a year. Blooms of these orchids are enough to create an attractive sight. Sikkim’s state flower dendrobium nobile has purple-pink combined petals with a dark majestic centerpoint to win your heart in a single glance.

If you’re a lover of blue orchids, then you must check out the Dendrobium airy blue orchid.

Cattleya Orchids

American native cattleya orchid plants give you fragrant and bright-coloured blooms. They are often called the “queen of orchids”. The mixture of different colours of cattleya is their central attraction due to their hybrid nature. This orchid species has beautiful lips of attractive colours. Mixed-coloured flowers of cattleya perfectly match with fleshy green leaves.

Vanda Orchid Plants

Vanda orchids are famous for their striking colours and large blooms. They need warm, humid conditions and lots of light. Vandas are often grown in hanging baskets. Long-lasting and fragrant blooms make your day special and memorable. These perennial plants hold a lifespan of over 20 years with care. Blue vanda is a medium-sized orchid that gives you beautiful inflorescences of cute blooms.

The Best Places to Buy Orchid Plants

There are many options for buying orchids, both online and offline. Reputable online retailers offer a wide variety of orchid species and hybrids. Visit the Plantzone category page to shop for orchids of different varieties. Local garden centres and florists also sell orchids. You purchase these varieties of plants of different seedling and mature size.

Places in India Suitable to Grow Orchids

Orchids are found in all diverse climates of India except super hot or cold regions. The northeastern states, such as Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, have the ultimate orchid diversity. Foxtail orchids are the speciality of Arunachal Pradesh. The Western Ghats and parts of Himalayan areas also have good conditions for growing orchids. These places are the best for growing orchids due to their tropical atmosphere. Orchids have important cultural and symbolic meanings around the world. In ancient Greece, orchids were linked to virility and fertility. In China, they symbolise refinement, elegance, and nobility. Orchids are also used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Today, orchids symbolise love and refinement. They are popular for wedding bouquets and decorations. Lovely colourful hybrid orchids are the perfect gift to make your companion happy.

How to Choose the Right Orchid Plants

Choosing the right orchid can be fun and easy. Here are some tips to help you pick the best one:

Best Season for Orchid Flowers

Orchids can bloom in different seasons. Most of the orchids bloom around March. Their leaf growth is seen during summer or early fall. Some of the orchids bloom during fall. For instance, leaf growth occurs for Phals in summer and further, it develops spikes with a drop in temperature. Fall is the best time for reblooming, which takes place in early spring. Additionally, dendrobium orchids bloom in late winter and early spring. For example, Phalaenopsis orchids bloom in late winter and spring. Meanwhile, Cymbidium orchids bloom in autumn and winter. Buying your favourite orchids in the blooming season is the best option for you. Orchids can bloom all year, but some seasons are better for certain types. Knowing when your orchid plants bloom helps you enjoy its flowers at the right time.

Needs of different orchids

Different orchids have specific care needs. Phalaenopsis orchids always need low to medium light and love the warm temperature the most. Dendrobium orchids need bright light and less frequent watering. Make sure you choose an orchid that matches with your surroundings. The little needs of various orchids include minimum watering once per week and east or west-facing bright windowsill. Lighting and watering requirements depend on the species.

Orchid species like Phalaenopsis, and Masdevallia can grow in low light. In contrast, dendrobium and Vanda prefer at least 6 hours of fun sun to give you beautiful blooms.

Price and Delivery Options

Orchids can vary in price. Online retailers often have a wide selection at different price points. Local nurseries may have higher prices but offer personalised advice. Consider delivery options too, as some orchids can be delicate and need special handling during shipping.

Orchids can cost different amounts. Common orchids like Phalaenopsis are usually cheaper. Rare orchids like Paphiopedzlum can be expensive. When buying orchids online, check the delivery options. Make sure the seller packs the orchid safely. Look for sellers who offer guarantees or return options if the orchid gets damaged.

Common Myths About Orchid Plants

Two myths about the caring and blooming of the orchids are a few seconds away from you.

Some people think orchids are hard to care for. In reality, many types are easy to grow at home. Parasites are the plants which take food from the fungi of their roots. Orchids are mostly epiphytic instead of parasites.
Another myth is that orchids only bloom once. With proper care, orchids can bloom multiple times a year.

Why Choose Orchid Flowers for Your Home?

Orchids are not just beautiful; they also have many benefits. They can improve air quality by releasing oxygen. They are also a great subject for starting a special conversation with someone due to their unique appearance.

Orchids also add to the beauty of your home. With the right care, different orchid types live for many years. Choose an orchid today and enjoy the beautiful colours of these stunning flowers.