The best types of orchids to have in your home

These interesting plants are an extremely varied and attractive species from all points of view. The richness of shapes, colors and scents of orchids is simply impressive. The size records they can break are also amazing. For example, the largest orchid grew several meters and weighed almost two tons. While at the other extreme there are species with flowers the size of a pinhead.

Of course, in domestic conditions it is unlikely to reproduce such spectacular specimens, although this does not mean that we cannot count on truly beautiful orchids in the house. There are four most commonly cultivated varieties of orchids: Phalenopsis, Dendrobium, Cymbidium and Katleja. All are perfect to give as gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, graduations, etc.

Phalaenopsis orchid

The Phalaenopsis orchid is the most popular type of orchid available for sale. For orchids grown in good conditions, the growth habit should be upright and all leaves should reach the same size. Its size depends on the variety and can vary from 5 to 65 cm in length. Phalaenopsis shoots vary from about 60 cm to a maximum of 150 cm in length. They can rise, arch or hang. The flowers of most phalaenopsis species have a diameter of 2 to 8 cm, but there are also 12 cm specimens.

We can have them in pots at home without any problem, even if we have to take care of their watering and general care. Regarding water, we must make sure that, especially in summer, it has water at least 2-4 days a week (but so that the substrate does not flood).

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Dendrobium

The Dendrobium orchid has an erect habit and usually reaches a height of 30-50 cm. It starts flowering when it is already 20 cm tall. Bell-shaped multicolored flowers with a diameter of 2.5-3 cm are placed on a long inflorescence bud. They flower for about a week, but since they do not grow at the same time, the flowering period can last several months. It mainly depends on the conditions of the apartment or the place where we keep our orchid.

We can find it in beautiful colors, such as pink, purple, white, yellow, orange, beige and also in two-tone forms.

Cymbidium

In turn, the Cymbidium orchid has a vertical habit and grows from 75 cm to 150 cm. The plant produces bunches of large pseudobulbs, from which long, narrow leaves 10-12 cm long and flowering buds grow. From 15 to 20 flowers can bloom on each shoot, gathered in bunches, with a diameter of 6 to 15 cm. Cymbidium flowers often have a deep purple lip. The number of colors in which flowers can bloom is enormous. They can be smooth or stained. There are also two-tone varieties that are usually quite attractive. In general we can say that this type of orchid is very popular and appreciated among breeders and lovers of this type of flower.

Cattleya

Cattleya orchids are plants in which growth occurs at the base of the old pseudobulb. After a few weeks it produces a separate pod with a new bud that sprouts. The entire plant can measure from 30 cm for single-leaved species to 90 cm for two-leaved species. Cattleya orchid flowers vary widely in size. Depending on the variety, its diameter can reach 20-25 cm. They flower for 1 to 10 weeks. And they smell great.

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The symbolism of the orchid flower

The ancient Greeks considered orchids a symbol of masculinity. In fact, they were so convinced of the link between orchids and fertility that they believed that orchids with large bulbous roots symbolized a male child, while orchids with small tubers symbolized a girl.

It is said that the Aztecs mixed vanilla orchid with chocolate to create a tasty elixir that was supposed to promote strength. And although in modern times orchids are no longer used as magic potions, they are still often displayed as a sign of luxury and as a means of demonstrating refined taste.