Orchids

Family (Latin): Orchidaceae

Nature's flawless blueprint for beauty

A brief introduction

Orchids are among the most diverse and largest plant families in the world, known for their exotic beauty, intricate blooms, and incredible variation. From rainforests to mountains and even deserts, orchids can be found on every continent with the exception of Antarctica. They are favored houseplants for their long-lasting flowers and mesmerizing forms.

Popular varieties

Phalaenopsis (moth orchid): The easiest for beginners, blooming for months.

Cattleya: large and fragrant flowers

Dendrobium: Cane-like stems, carrying an abundance of flowers.

~ Symbolic meaning ~

Traditionally, orchids represent luxury, refinement, rare beauty, fertility, and love. During Victorian times, giving or receiving an orchid meant deep admiration.

Plant care

Soil

Orchids generally do not grow in regular soil. Most of them are epiphytes, meaning they grow on trees in nature. Using a special orchid mix, containing bark, perlite, charcoal, or sphagnum moss, provides for proper aeration and drainage.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Too much light: Leaves turn yellow. Too little - leaves turn dark green, and flowering decreases. Most common species are best suited to windows facing east or west.

Watering

Water thoroughly but allow the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of orchid decline. Mist lightly or keep humid for tropical varieties.

Care

Humidity: Should be 40–70%. Repot: Every 1–2 years to renew the potting mix. Feeding: Orchid fertilizer is applied every 2–4 weeks during active growth. Airflow: Good ventilation prevents rot and fungal problems

Good for pollinators: No

Toxic to pets: No

Fragrant: No

Care difficulty: Easy

Did you know?

While the world's tiniest orchid will barely reach the size of a grain of rice, the largest will weigh over a ton and grow several meters tall, like Grammatophyllum speciosum.