When it comes to types of orchids, we must emphasize that orchids are one of the most diverse and fascinating flowering plant families, with over 25,000 species and 100,000 hybrids worldwide. These stunning flowers are known for their unbelievable patterns and shapes, and they come in a wide range of colors and sizes.
In this article, we will discuss the 7 basic types of orchids and describe each type in detail. As we could not pick our favorite type, to start with, the decision was made to do it in alphabetical order. Here we go!
Overview
| Type | Care | Blooming season | Flower lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cattleya Orchids | Bright light; moderate water and fertilizer | Late winter to early summer | 1-2 weeks |
| Dendrobium Orchids | Bright, indirect light; frequent watering | Spring to early summer | 1-2 months |
| Lady Slipper Orchids | Shady, cool environment; moderate watering | Late winter to early summer | 2-3 weeks |
| Miltonia Orchids | Bright, indirect light; frequent watering | Winter to spring | 2-4 weeks |
| Oncidium Orchids | Bright light; moderate watering and fertilizer | Late winter to early summer | 1-2 months |
| Phalaenopsis Orchids | Indirect light; moderate watering and fertilizer | Throughout the year | 2-3 months |
| Vanda Orchids | Bright light; frequent watering and fertilizer | Summer to fall | 2-3 weeks |
Please be aware that the data listed in the table above, about the care and blooming seasons, may vary depending on the specific cultivar of each type of orchid. It’s always a good idea to research the specific needs of your orchids to ensure they thrive.
Types of Orchids
1. Cattleya Orchids
Cattleya orchids are some of the most popular and widely grown orchids, known for their large, showy flowers and vibrant colors. These orchids typically bloom in the spring and summer, and their flowers can last for several weeks. They require bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Cattleya spp.
- Native area: Central and South America
- Size: 12-24 inches tall
- Light requirements: Bright, indirect light
- Water requirements: Moderate watering, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Moisture requirements: High humidity, mist regularly
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Wide range of colors including purple, pink, yellow, and white
2. Dendrobium Orchids
Dendrobium orchids are a large and diverse group of orchids, with over 1,000 species found throughout Asia and the Pacific. They are known for their long, slender stems and colorful flowers, which can range from white and yellow to pink and purple. Dendrobium orchids require bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Dendrobium spp.
- Native area: Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands
- Size: Varies widely depending on species
- Light requirements: Bright, indirect light
- Water requirements: Frequent watering during growing season, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Moisture requirements: Moderate to high humidity
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Wide range of colors including white, pink, purple, and yellow
3. Lady Slipper Orchids
Lady Slipper orchids, also known as Paphiopedilum orchids, are a group of terrestrial orchids found throughout Asia and the Pacific. They are known for their distinctive slipper-shaped flowers, which come in a range of colors and patterns. Lady Slipper orchids require a well-draining potting mix and moderate to low light.
- Botanical name: Paphiopedilum spp.
- Native area: Southeast Asia, India, and the Pacific Islands
- Size: 6-30 inches tall
- Light requirements: Indirect light, shaded environment
- Water requirements: Moderate watering, do not allow soil to dry out completely
- Moisture requirements: High humidity, mist regularly
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix with high organic matter
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Usually shades of pink, purple, or white
4. Miltonia Orchids
Miltonia orchids, also known as Pansy orchids, are a group of orchids native to South America. They are known for their large, fragrant flowers, which come in a range of colors and patterns. Miltonia orchids require bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Miltonia spp.
- Native area: South America
- Size: 12-24 inches tall
- Light requirements: Bright, indirect light
- Water requirements: Frequent watering, keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Moisture requirements: High humidity, mist regularly
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Wide range of colors including pink, purple, yellow, and white
5. Oncidium Orchids
Oncidium orchids, also known as Dancing Lady orchids, are a group of orchids found throughout the Americas. They are known for their intricate flowers, which can resemble dancing ladies. Oncidium orchids require bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Oncidium spp.
- Native area: South and Central America
- Size: 12-24 inches tall
- Light requirements: Bright, indirect light
- Water requirements: Moderate watering, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Moisture requirements: Moderate to high humidity
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Usually shades of yellow, brown, or red with some purple and white
6. Phalaenopsis Orchids
Phalaenopsis orchids, also known as Moth orchids, are a group of orchids native to Southeast Asia. They are known for their large, flat flowers, which can come in a range of colors and patterns. Phalaenopsis orchids require moderate to low light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Phalaenopsis spp.
- Native area: Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands
- Size: 12-36 inches tall
- Light requirements: Indirect light
- Water requirements: Moderate watering, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Moisture requirements: Moderate to high humidity
- Soil type: Well-draining potting mix
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5-6.5)
- Flower color: Wide range of colors including white, pink, purple, and yellow
7. Vanda Orchids
Vanda orchids are a group of orchids native to Southeast Asia and Australia. They are known for their large, colorful flowers, which can last for several weeks. Vanda orchids require bright, indirect light and a well-draining potting mix.
- Botanical name: Vanda spp.
- Native area: Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands
- Size: 12-36 inches tall
- Light requirements: Bright, indirect light
- Water requirements: Frequent watering, soak roots and allow to dry between waterings
- Moisture requirements: High humidity, mist regularly
- Soil type: No soil needed, grows in baskets or on mounts with a coarse mix of bark or charcoal
- Soil pH: N/A
- Flower color: Usually shades of blue, purple, or white
Conclusion
Orchids are a diverse and fascinating group of plants, with a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. From the large and showy Cattleya orchids to the delicate and slipper-shaped Lady Slipper orchids, each type has its unique characteristics and growing requirements.
By understanding the different types of orchids, you can choose the perfect plant for your home or garden and enjoy the beauty of these stunning flowers for years to come.
