The Species of Orchids

Other Articles | November 1, 2010

Lots of people think that there are several species of orchid plants,but little did they know that you will find only 2 different types oforchids: the terrestrial orchids and the epiphytic orchids. The firsttype of orchids thrives on pots and the latter variety of orchids cangrow on trees and rocks.

Lots of people think that there are several species of orchid plants, but little did they know that you will find only 2 different types of orchids: the terrestrial orchids and the epiphytic orchids. The first type of orchids thrives on pots and the latter variety of orchids can grow on trees and rocks.


Terrestrial orchids are typically regarded as the most precious orchids among all orchid plants. The cymbidium is one variety of terrestrial orchid that has 40 other varieties of species along with hundreds of hybrids. These kinds of orchid plants were one of those original orchid species which were never grown by horticulturists and orchid lovers alike. Cymbidium orchids are terrestrial orchids which can flourish both on soil, on trees and rocks. Primarily, orchid plants can grow quite well in rotten woods. On top of that, cymbidium orchids are commonly found in Southeast Asia and in Japan, which is their natural habitat. They can even be found in Australia. Cymbidium orchids are well-known as they can be really easily grown in one�s home which in turn makes these special orchid plants the best choice for first-timers in growing orchids indoors.


Astoundingly, the prevalent orchids are the epiphytes; these are orchids which have their roots on soil or ground. Notably, the Dendrobium is the most popular among the epiphytic orchids. Although they are quite simple to grow, they require a bit more care compared to Cymbidium. In addition, these orchids do not simply proliferate as any other orchid plants. However, there are surprisingly over a thousand species of this orchid. These varieties of orchids normally thrive in the wild tropical of Northern India, Polynesia, Southeast Asia, and Australia. On the other hand, Dendrobium does thrive in mild and wet conditions and therefore needs to be placed in moist or humid areas when grown indoors. Another species of epiphytic orchids are the admirably lovely Phalaenopsis orchids. These types of orchids are rather easy to grow and with proper care, they are able to bear beautifully alluring flowers. These orchid species are commonly seen during special occasions including weddings as their flowers come in different colors which include yellow, stripes, pink and more.


And lastly, there are epiphytic orchids which are able to grow on structures like trees and even poles. As well, epiphytic orchids can also flourish on dead and wasted trees. They make use of the crude matter collected between branches and roots as their food. The roots of this kind of orchid plants can easily subsist on both wet and dry surface. The roots have white and spongy layer which is usually formed to easily take in the water in the surrounding. The coating of the roots absorbs water while in rainy season.