Do You Know How Many Orchid Types Exist?

| Thursday, February 24, 2011
By Nancy Molins


While there are numerous hybrids and species of orchids, in reality there only exists two distinct orchid types. Terrestrial orchids are the first type which is grown directly on the soil. Epiphytes are the second orchid type which is found growing in rocky areas or in trees.

The most well liked orchids usually belong to the terrestrial orchid type. But some of the terrestrial orchids are only semi-terrestrial, although this orchid type typically has roots which grow underground like the majority of other plants. This term means that the roots of these plants are found both under and above the soil.

There are as many as 40 species and thousands of hybrids that make up the terrestrial orchid type known as Cymbidium orchids. This species was one of the original ones to be grown by man. These orchids exemplify terrestrials that can grow not only on trees and rocks, but also on the ground. Rotted wood, decayed leaves and loose humus are excellent growing media for these orchids.

From Southeast Asia to Japan, as well as throughout Australia, cymbidium orchids can be found naturally. These orchid represent the ideal orchid for beginners to grow because of how easy it is to do, making Cymbidiums extremely popular. You will have exquisite blossoms year after year as long as they are cared for properly.

The term epiphytes is actually not reserved only for orchids. It refers to any plant that has a root system above ground. Dendrobiums are the best known epiphytes orchid types. Although they are easy to grow, they require slightly more care than Cymbidiums and do not flower as easily on a regular basis.

There are over 1000 species of them. They can be found in Northern India, South East Asia, Australia and Polynesia. Because they are found in tropical conditions, Dendrobium orchids thrive in warm, humid growing conditions and should be kept moist.

Phalaenopsis orchids represent another type of epiphyte that is extremely popular. Not only do their flowers last a long time, it doesn't take a lot to grow them. Pink, yellow, and even striped orchids are the color varieties they come in, and these orchids are frequently used as wedding flowers.

Trees are a common growing spot for epiphytic orchids. This type of orchid does not use the tree for sustenance even though it grows there. By attaching their thick roots to tree branches or bark they are able to maintain themselves. The plant is able to nourish itself by using the buildup of organic matter that collects in spaces found between branches and roots.

When conditions are both wet and dry, these hardy epiphytic roots are able to keep the orchid alive. Water is easily absorbed through the root's sponge-like covering that is off-white in color. The interior of the root is sturdy and stringy. Water is soaked up through the root during rainy weather. When the root turns a shade of light green, it is a signal that it has absorbed all the water it can take in. The water is then released very slowly, allowing water to remain in the root for a long time.

You may also find rocks upon which some species of epiphytic orchids cling. The epiphytes favorite habitat is a wide, well ventilated area with moderate sunlight being that they typically are found attached to trees or rocks.

You should now be fully aware of the fact that while there are thousands of orchid varieties, there are only two orchid types.






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