When I was given my first phalaenopsis, I simply fell in love. I also bought a dendrobium, and then decided to put together an exclusive collection of all types of orchids in my home. I naively believed that orchids were all those several species that are sold in our flower shops and come to us from distant countries. Who knew that there are thousands of them in nature!
- We believe that these are solid epiphytes, that is, “lianas” living on large trees. But most orchids are shrubs, and more often - perennial herbs.
- They range in size from a meter or more to several centimeters.
- Epiphytes and lithophytes (living on stones), in addition to the working roots with which they are attached, also have air, along with leaves, involved in photosynthesis.
- All species require insects for pollination.. After pollination, many orchids produce a record number of seeds - up to 4 million.
- "In the wild" some species live up to 100 years. However, in a greenhouse, with sensitive care, these flowers can also bloom for years, living up to 70 years.
- They are found not only in tropical forests, but even in Australia and Europe (what’s up, several species bloom quite easily in Siberia - you will learn which ones exactly from the video at the end of the article).
Types of orchids growing on different continents
Biologists divide all these flowers into 5 subfamilies. In turn, subfamilies are divided into genera, and those into species.
- Apostasiaceae. The smallest subfamily (16 species), representatives of which are found in Japan, Indochina, New Guinea and Australia. Among them: apostasy and non-vision (pictured above).
- Cypripediaceae. They grow on almost all continents (just not in Africa). These are perennial herbs, epiphytes and lithophytes. There are as many as 130 species here. The most popular can be called “Venus’s slipper” (yes, the same one growing in Belarus and Russia).
- Vanilla. There are even more species here - as many as 180. Vanilla can be considered the most famous flower... The very same seasoning from which we add to biscuits. These beauties bloom in the African tropics, as well as Asia, South and Central America.
- Epidendral. The most numerous subfamily - there are 500 genera in it, and species (it’s even scary to imagine) - 20 thousand! Most often these are epiphytes, less often lianas or terrestrial herbs. It’s not hard to guess that you can see one of these species on any continent. The most popular example is cattleya (by the way, it is also bred at home).
- Orchids. Also known as Orchisaceae. There are “only” 4 thousand species, mostly terrestrial, with an erect stem. The pride of the “family” can be considered phalaenopsis, which I will discuss below. But besides ornamental ones, there are many medicinal orchid plants (say, dactylorhiza or palmate root).
Popular varieties of orchids that you can grow at home
A hundred years ago, growing orchids was considered an exquisite, expensive pastime for aristocrats. Now anyone can afford this miracle in a pot, and the only thing that will stop you is the assortment of the local flower shop. And even then, seeds of rare varieties can be bought on the Internet.
Phalaenopsis
These “tropics” are quite whimsical, but you can create conditions for them in almost any house or apartment. Moreover, if you managed to buy a phalaenopsis hybrid, it is less picky.
There are many shades of these colors: they are white, pink, red and purple, yellow, blue, blue and even black.
Popular types:
- Amabilis. If cared for correctly, it can grow with you for years. At one time it can produce many dozens of small (up to 10 cm in diameter) flowers with a delicate but pleasant smell.
- Pink. A small plant, its flowers are no larger than 3 cm. By the way, they can be not only pink, but also white.
- Schiller. It is distinguished by unusual leaves: they are reddish on the inside, grayish on top, with green splashes.
- Sandera. It is difficult to buy because it is rarely found in stores. It has spotted flowers and “tiger” leaves.
- Stewart. It has white flowers decorated with pink and yellow dots.
- Giant. It has leaves that grow up to half a meter, or even a meter. The flowers are small compared to the leaves, but they smell like lemon.
- Lüdemann. Another orchid with spotted flowers.
Cymbidium
This species is distinguished by its “grass” leaves: long and narrow.
Up to 13 flowers bloom on peduncles. They are of the drooping type, so don't be alarmed if the orchid suddenly decides to bloom "downwards".
Popular cymbidiums:
- Lowe. Near the roots there are bulbs. May have green flowers.
- Eburneum. Its white flowers smell like lilacs. This is a low plant.
- Aloe-leaf. Epiphyte, grows up to only 30 cm.
- Giant. But this cymbidium, on the contrary, produces flowers up to 12 cm in diameter. They have a leopard print... But you can only see them in a greenhouse.
Dendrobium
These are exclusively epiphytes. Scientists know about a thousand species of dendrobium.
- Nobile. The most famous type. The plant grows up to 60 cm, the flowers are quite large (up to 7 cm in diameter). It blooms densely, sometimes the stem is not visible behind the clusters of petals. The leaves are small, semicircular. And most importantly, this is a very unpretentious flower that is suitable even for beginners.
Darwin's orchids
The flowers look like stars, because of this the species received another name, popularly - “comet”.
By the way, the species should not be confused with the Darwinard orchid, which has bright blue flowers.
Potinara
A very successful hybrid, the flowers have not only sharp, but also wavy petals. They can also be recognized by their delicate smell. The orchid blooms all summer, and if you “ask” well, even in September.
Brassia
Easy to care for. Flowers bring joy in the last months of spring and the first summer. A regular brassia is afraid of high room temperatures, but if you buy a hybrid, it will be easier to handle the heat.
Miltoniopsis
Only hybrids of this plant are grown at home.
The flowers are large, 2-3 colors, violet-like. The leaves are narrow, like grass.
Feature of the species: does not require winter rest.
Vanda Orchid
Spectacular but rare look. This is because it is difficult to grow.
Cattleya
Another "bad guy". This genus has almost 200 species.
Photos of the most interesting varieties
- "The Naked Man". The second name, which suggests where the shameless flowers grow, is Italian orchis.
- "Dove of Peace", "Flying Heron". The flower can be found in Japan. Here they decorate gardens and window sills.
- "Dracula". This is the official name of the variety with different shades of flowers. And the unofficial, but more accurate: “Monkey face.” This miracle blooms only high in the mountains of Ecuador and Peru, and it smells like our native mushrooms.
- "Dancing Girls". A rare flower that gardeners consider a collectible.
- "Dove" or "Holy Spirit". Scientifically, peristeria is high. This fragrant flower once greatly pleased the monks who saw it for the first time. The holy brothers decided that this was a sign from heaven, sent to strengthen their faith.
Is it possible to guess the variety by the leaves, without the flowers?
This is difficult to do, since the leaves of many varieties are similar. Most often you have to wait for the buds to appear.
Although, of course, there are several types of orchids that have a special coloring of leaf plates.
- Ludisia.
- Makodes.
- Dossinia.
- Goodyer.
Finally, the leaves of the Vanda orchid, which I mentioned above, and the Schiller phalaenopsis are more or less different.
How to properly care for these flowers
- Light. It should be indirect; the plant will receive nothing but burns from sunbeams. Place the pot on a window shaded by trees, or shade the flower yourself (blinds, roller blinds, or a special glass film will help you). And in winter it is better to provide additional lighting to the flowers.
- Watering. Only when the roots (you have a transparent pot, right?) become whitish and transparent. Green roots mean the plant is drunk. Always settle the water, do not take it straight from the tap. And do not pour leaves into the rosette, only into the soil. All excess will drain from below into the pan - remove such water.
- Spraying. Orchids adore them, especially in the heat (but in the morning). And if in winter there is a radiator next to the pot, place the pot on a tray with wet pebbles (expanded clay). The moisture will evaporate and humidify the air. The leaves can be additionally wiped with a damp cloth, but do not leave any drops on them.
- Priming. As loose as possible. If you have an epiphyte, pine bark with moss (sphagnum) and small inclusions of pebbles, leaf soil and coal will suit you.
- Feeding. The plant should not be overfed. Buy only mixtures for orchids and dilute them as written on the package. There are plenty of fertilizers for orchids in stores, choose according to your wallet or the advice of the seller. Be sure to give them in the summer (after all, the flower grows in terribly poor soil), and in the winter put the orchid on a diet. Most plants have a dormant period at this time; they even need to be watered less.
- Cosiness. The plant is afraid of drafts.
- Reproduction. Depending on the species, you can propagate your favorite by dividing the bush (but carefully), by children, by cuttings (dendrobiums), by rooting the top (Vanda orchid).
By the way! In our country, orchids are treated with all respect, considering them exclusively guests from distant countries. But we also grow our own orchids - orchis and bifolia. Look - a summer resident found these cutest flowers in her Moscow region:
And these flowers bloom in the Crimean forest. What is not a reason, while walking, to take a closer look at the babies blooming at our feet? Just don’t rush to collect them in bouquets, because many wild orchids reproduce by seeds.
Recently, the orchid has actively begun to displace the queen of flowers, the rose, from its leadership position. And it is not surprising that more and more often orchids in pots began to be given as gifts for all kinds of holidays.
True, many happy owners of such a flower are at first lost and do not know how to preserve its life, how to care for it so as not to injure the beautiful petals, or how to replant it correctly.
For such cases, there are special types of orchids that will easily take root on your windowsills.
There are two types of indoor orchids:
- Sympodials are updated regularly. When one bud fades, several new buds appear in its place. In addition, this species sends out shoots from the sides at the base of the flower, due to which orchids bloom in several branches at once. Sympodial plants have pseudobulbs - stem tubers that accumulate useful substances necessary for the plant. Sympodial species include Cattleya, Cymbidium and Dendrobium.
- Monopidial orchids have only one straight stem from which all the leaves grow and live as long as the stem itself. Buds for buds appear in the axils of the leaves. Varieties like Vanda grow very large and dense. But most often you can find Phalaenopsis on windowsills; these are rosette-shaped plants, their stems reach 10 cm in height.
Types of orchids - descriptions of how to care for orchids
Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis is a variety that includes about 70 other subcultivars. Their homeland is Australia and Indonesia, so the tropical climate is the most suitable for them. The flowers received such an unusual name due to their similarity to the shape of butterflies.
In addition to the intricate name, there are also folk ones: butterfly orchid or Malayan flowers. It is the beauty of the inflorescences that attracts flower lovers; moreover, phalaenopsis is quite easy to care for.
This type of orchid belongs to the monopodial class, since it consists of a straight stem, from which short shoots are formed and inflorescences are collected, and leaves grow from the base of the plant.
Most subspecies have leaves that are wide and deep green in color, however, some subspecies have leaves with stunning marble-like patterns. Up to 15 large and very beautiful butterfly flowers grow on the arched peduncles of this species.
In order for the orchid to bloom with renewed vigor the next time it has finished blooming, you need to cut off the flowering shoot 3-4 cm from the base. With proper care, it will bloom two to three times a year. The flowering processes are affected only by the owner's care; it is sunny outside the window or cloudy - it does not matter.
The color range of Phalaenopsis is very extensive, the most popular are white, light pink, hot pink, orange and yellow orchids. Lilac and light green flowers are not so common.
In order not to ruin the plant, it must be protected from bright sunlight. It will be best if they stand on the window sills on the west or east side.
It is important to create conditions that are as similar as possible to a tropical climate, so the room temperature should not fall below 12 degrees and rise above 25.
It is necessary to moisten the soil extremely rarely; it must be dry. However, it must be completely moistened; it is good if it is possible to place the substrate in water for a while and then let it drain.
They can be replanted maximum once every two years. Because this procedure is very difficult for them to endure. From March to September it is necessary to fertilize the plant with a special solution, which can be purchased at florist stores.
Types of orchids - Cattleya
Cattleya grows in South America and has more than fifty subspecies.
Cattleya is divided into two types:
- A purple and white, beautifully scented orchid growing from the top of a pseudobulb. The bulbs themselves produce one leaf at a time.
- Orchids in a wide range of colors, with ruffled edges. Pseudobulbs have a cylindrical shape, several leaves grow from them at once. The flowers are very dense in texture, have a wonderful aroma, bloom for 2-4 weeks, cut flowers retain their original appearance for up to 25 days.
Cattleyas bloom from April to September; the rest of the time the orchid grows without buds. It is advisable that during the rest period, the room temperature does not exceed 18 degrees during the day and 10 at night.
Cattleya needs a lot of heat and sun and it is better to choose windows on the south side. But active sunlight is just as harmful to this variety as it is to phalaenopsis, so at noon, it is necessary to limit flowers in sunbathing. In winter, you can’t do without fluorescent lamps.
Types of orchids - Cattleya During the period of active flowering, the plant needs regular watering. During the hibernation period, regularity should not be disturbed, however, Cattleya requires much less water.
In addition, from April to September it is imperative to fertilize the orchid using complex solutions. For this type, transplantation is necessary. Once every two years, the bulb families should be divided so that you get 3-4 pieces in one pot.
Type of orchids - Bulbophyllum
The largest variety of orchids in terms of number is Bulbophyllum; its family includes about 2000 subspecies that can be found throughout almost the entire tropical zone.
Ideal conditions for home planting are a slatted basket and special soil, which includes sand, bark and sphagnum.
Bulbophyllum blooms with small buds in two rows along the shoot, the smell of the flowers is very pungent. Different subspecies have leaves of different shapes. Some subspecies of this family bloom only in winter, others in summer, for example, “lobba”.
They should be treated with special solutions twice a month. It is also undesirable to replant this species. Dividing a bush is one of the ways to propagate a plant. Bulbophyllums reproduce independently using bulbs.
Wanda
In New Guinea, Indonesia or the Philippine Islands you can find these beautiful flowers. Their natural habitat is rocks and tree crowns.
This type of orchid is one of the largest in size; Vanda shoots reach 1.5 in height. However, if it is not possible to observe the growth of flowers in their homeland, then it is possible to plant flowers at home. Moreover, in indoor conditions, the height of the plant does not exceed 80 cm.
Orchid leaves grow in two rows around a dense stem. In the axils of the leaves, flowering shoots are formed, which usually bear several inflorescences at once.
In one inflorescence there are many rather large flat flowers with a pungent aroma, together forming a raceme. Orchids of this type are monochromatic, however, this color is very bright. The most common shades of Vanda are white, blue, purple and pink.
Vanda blooms for two to three weeks in the warm season. Cut branches can stand in water for up to 10 days. In order for the variety to bloom, it is necessary to create conditions with good lighting and low humidity.
Since Wanda loves warmth very much, the temperature in the room in winter should not fall below 15 degrees, otherwise the plant will die.
Regardless of whether the orchid is blooming at a given time or not, the soil should be kept moist at all times. Roots that are not covered with soil should be additionally sprayed with water.
Despite the fact that there are up to 120 species in the family, this type of orchid is quite rare. Dracula grows on tree trunks in Mexico, Ecuador and Colombia.
The maximum height for the plant is 3 meters. The name of the flower is no coincidence. Firstly, the buds are strikingly similar to the mouth of a dragon, and secondly, in addition to insects, bats also pollinate the flower.
And finally, thirdly, the easiest way to recognize Dracula among other orchids is by its color - black. Its shades are unique to the entire flower world.
Like the bats themselves, Dracula requires a darkened room with moderate temperature and very high humidity, at least 70%. If possible, in summer the plant should be taken outside.
Type of orchid - Dendrobium
A fairly large family is Dendrobium. About 1,600 species of this variety grow in the forests of Australia and South Asia. The variety got its name due to the fact that it grows on trees.
Dendrobium is translated as “the one that lives on the tree.” Externally, the subspecies of this family differ:
- orchids with hanging long bulbs;
- orchids with short fleshy bulbs;
- orchids with elongated vertical bulbs.
Dendrobium belongs to the group of sympodial orchids. The sizes of plants, stems and leaves are different for all subgroups. The inflorescences form a cluster of 15 buds.
The most common orchids of this family are yellow. However, in nature there are also white, red and light green Dendrobiums. Unfortunately, not all types have a pleasant aroma.
Dendrobium blooms in late winter - early summer. At this time, flowers and flowers need increased moisture. Replanting, like other species, is very rare, only if it is necessary to change the soil.
The types of orchids listed above can quite easily and quickly take root at home, however, in order for them to delight you with their flowering, you need to make a little effort, because these plants are exotic, not accustomed to the conditions of our latitudes.
Caring for orchids is not so difficult, but the result of your care will result in abundant and unique flowering.
What types of orchids are grown in our conditions video
Types of orchids photo gallery
Most of the orchid flowers belong to the plant family of perennial grasses, and their sizes can range from several centimeters to a meter for individual members of the family.
Orchid flowers, which belong to epiphytes, can grow on stones and rocks, as well as on other plants, where they do not need soil and receive a lot of light.
This was made possible because of their roots. They can be of varying lengths, creeping and erect. Depending on its habitat, with their help the plant is attached to the ground, maintaining a vertical position; participates in photosynthesis; absorbs essential vital substances from the bark. Also found in nature are rare species of terrestrial orchids that prefer a temperate climate.
It is worth noting that orchids also differ in colors. Despite the fact that their shape is unusual and original, there are two types of inflorescences: with a single arrangement or several flowers on stalks that grow along the stem. It is interesting that among orchids there are specimens that surprise with the shape of the foliage and its brightness, for example, makodes or ludizia variegated, although their flowers are inconspicuous. Also, orchid plants have different odors depending on the variety and you can recognize the aroma of lemon, cinnamon and gourmet coffee in them.
You should study the types of orchids in pictures with names, as well as a brief description to understand how to determine the type of orchid . This will allow not only to grow the plant, but also to select optimal conditions for its growth and flowering.
All types of orchids
Orchids are divided into 5 families, which in turn are divided into genera and numerous species:
Apostasis. This group includes nevidia and apostasia, and 16 species of perennial plants.
Cypripediaceae. The genus “Venus’s slipper” brought particular fame.
Vanilla. Includes the vanilla genus.
Epidendral. The most famous: the genus Cattleya, Dactylostalyx.
Orchidaceae. Anakamptis and phalaenopsis are popular.
Among this variety can be noted:
Cattleya lipped. A large flower with petals covered with a layer of wax and a lip-shaped center.
Lycasta fragrant. The spectacular buds are painted in a bright lemon color and are more than 17 cm in diameter. The shoots are up to 25 cm in height.
Darwin's orchid. It has buds of an unusual blue-violet color, which grow up to 3 cm in diameter and are collected in a racemose inflorescence. The leaves are leathery, dark green in color.
Potinara “Burana Beauty”. Blooms throughout the warm season. It has a variegated bud color: yellow-red wavy petals.
Orchid Denddrodium nobile. The plant grows up to 60 cm with flowers with a diameter of up to 7 cm. It It has beautiful flowering and is easy to care for.
Types of indoor orchids
Having dealt with the types of orchids, it is worth noting that not all varieties can be propagated at home. Hybrid species bred as a result of crossing will feel great.
Indoor orchids are divided into two groups:
Monopodial. These include, for example, phalaenopsis. This group is characterized by the presence of an apical bud. Leaves grow from it in opposite rows, so the shoots have an unlimited length. The distance between the rows of leaves varies, as it depends on the type of plant. The peculiarity of the leaves is that they retain water reserves. Their flower stalks are long. It should be noted that after flowering there is no need to remove, and if you prune, new ones appear.
Sympodial. The peculiarity lies in the inflorescences, which can be of two types: apical and lateral. In the first variant, the apical bud dies after reaching a certain size or degenerates into a peduncle, and a new one is formed at its base. In another case, lateral buds appear from the buds located at the base of the shoot.
The stems are characterized by strong thickening and later turn into tubers of various shapes. This is where water and nutrients are found. The most famous species are dendrobium and cymbidium.
Cymbidium orchid species
The peculiarity of cymbidiums is that they have long, leathery, belt-shaped leaves. The peduncles are hanging, usually up to 13 flowers grow on them. Blooms profusely for 10 weeks.
The most famous among them:
Cymbidium Lowe(Cymbidium lowianum) . It belongs to the epiphytes; at the base it has bulbs with a diameter of up to 10 cm. It blooms for only a few months, starting from the end of winter. The peduncle is curved, can reach a meter in length, and bears an inflorescence consisting of greenish-yellow flowers. Their middle is shaped like a lip, with a red spot.
Eburneum, Cymbidium ivory(Cymbidium eburneum). The peduncle reaches only 30 cm, erect. It bears large white flowers. They emit a slight aroma similar to the smell of lilac.
Cymbidium aloefolia ( Cymbidium aloifolium, Cymbidium pendulum). An epiphytic orchid of small size up to 30 cm. It is distinguished by inflorescences that form hanging clusters of flowers with a diameter of up to 4.5 cm. The color of the petals is light yellow with cream or dark red.
Cymbidium giant(Cymbidium giganteum) . The inflorescence produces many buds up to 12 cm in size; flowering is not abundant. A rare species growing in the tropics, it is distinguished by the color of its petals - light orange with a yellow lip and a red spot at the base.
Dendrobium orchid species
The name is dendrobium or “tree-dwelling.” The plant belongs to a variety of orchids, of which there are more than 1000 species, which differ in the color of the petals, the shape of the buds and inflorescences. They have loose elongated leaves, and the roots are covered with a waxy coating. Shoots can be either erect or drooping. It all depends on the size.
Phalaenopsis orchid species
The homeland of phalaenopsis is the tropics, where the climate is humid and warm, so they are whimsical in maintenance. If you purchase hybrid phalaenopsis, you will have to care for them like an ordinary indoor flower. At the same time, they will delight with their bright colors, similar to colorful butterflies.
The following plants belong to this variety of orchids:
Phalaenopsis Amabilis. It is a long-liver whose flowers in the inflorescence open sequentially. There can be even 100 buds on a peduncle, measuring up to 10 cm. It thins out a pleasant light aroma. Since it belongs to epiphytes, its stem is not clearly defined. The leaves are oblong, close in shape to a dark green cylinder up to 50 cm. They are fleshy, and roots form from them. It is this species that is taken to develop new hybrids.
Phalaenopsis pink. This orchid is miniature, as the leaves are only up to 8 cm long and have an unusual color: the top is dark green, the bottom is reddish. Flowers can be of different colors: from white to pink. In the inflorescence there are only 15 flowers with a diameter of no more than 3 cm. They are located on a curved peduncle, which is distinguished by a purple color.
Schiller's phallenopsis. This species is distinguished by the ability to bloom more than once, so in this case flowering can last only a couple of months. If the plant is well developed on the peduncle, there is usually abundant flowering without interruption, up to 200 flowers.
The leaves are of an unusual color: the top is silver-gray interspersed with dark green spots, the bottom has a red tint. The color of the buds is soft pink or purple, with pronounced purple veins.
Phalaenopsis Sandera. The flower is not found often; it got its name in honor of the botanist Sander. On a long peduncle, up to 50 buds grow, arranged in opposite rows. The hard leaves have a dark green color with variegated light spots, like tiger. Long flowering is observed.
Phalaenopsis Stewart. The leaf size is up to 35 cm. This species has a branching peduncle on which up to 60 flowers can grow. The buds are distinguished by original patterns consisting of yellow and red spots. Flowering occurs for several months, followed by a period of dormancy.
Phalaenopsis gigantica. It has characteristic leaves: wide, leathery, hanging down. Their sizes can exceed 60 cm, and in some specimens they reach meter sizes. The buds are round in shape and located on a curved, hanging peduncle, thinning the citrus aroma. The color range of the petals ranges from cream to yellow, with reddish-brown streaks on them. This specimen crosses well with other species and hybrids, and is therefore valued by breeders.
Lüdemann. It has characteristic features - the color of the flower is unusual with chestnut and purple interrupted stripes on a white background, with a bright center, while the petals are not large, characterized by a dense structure. The leaves are light green in the shape of an ellipse. The buds open one by one, and the flowering period occurs in spring and early summer.
Kira Stoletova
Orchids are people's favorite indoor plants. But not every person has the opportunity to provide these flowers with proper care. There are less whimsical flowers, similar to orchids.
Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish between different types of flowers externally. Some of them resemble an orchid. They can decorate a room or area just as well. This:
- alstroemeria;
- schisanthus;
- evening;
- iris.
They are used both as indoor crops and for decorating flower beds. To make them bloom faster, it is important to plant them in suitable soil and provide them with proper care.
Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria also has another name - “Alstroemeria”. She appears to be a cross between a lily and an orchid.
The plant is popular as a garden decoration. It attracts gardeners for several reasons:
- the bush of the desired color can be easily grown from seeds or prepared as seedlings;
- an adult flower is successfully propagated by division;
- The flower is planted in the warm period of spring, at the same time as tomato seedlings.
The optimal temperature in summer for the crop is not lower than 23°C. You should follow the watering and fertilizing regime, then flowering will occur faster and will be of better quality.
Alstroemeria loves loose nitrogenous soil, so it is fed with mineral fertilizers. The soil is loosened before planting. The flower is planted in an open, bright area without the scorching rays of the sun.
To make flowers cut from a flowerbed last longer, unopened buds and small leaves are cut off. They will open up in the vase and the bouquet will last longer.
Schizanthus
This species was called the "poor man's orchid." Schizanthus (another name is schizanthus) resembles varieties from the Orchid family, but itself belongs to the nightshade family. It is not often cultivated in home gardens, although it produces a large number of beautiful flowers.
It is also easy to grow from seeds if you prepare the seedlings in advance. Already at the end of May, small sprouts are planted in open ground.
Schizanthus is also suitable for growing as a houseplant:
- In summer it is placed on a ventilated balcony without scorching rays.
- In winter, they are brought into the apartment and left at rest for this period.
Schizanthus does not like overly moist soil. It reacts to excess moisture with accelerated stem growth and lack of flowering. Excessive moisture is also harmful to the root system: it can rot.
Lilac, white or carmine with spots, pinnate schizanthus resembles an orchid more than other species. This is an annual flower, so it will have to be planted annually. In favorable conditions, schizanthus grows so that its flowers cover the leaves.
Vechernitsa (night violet)
The nocturnal violet received the name “night violet” for its similarity with violets and because it smells strongly at night. This is a semi-wild crop that grows in self-gardens or is planted by humans. It is grown in flower beds - it is not a houseplant.
An adult flower has small inflorescences with 4 leaves, a large, well-defined stem, and drooping leaves.
Positive qualities of night violet:
- blooms for a long time - from May to August;
- unpretentious in care, survives drought and short cold snaps well;
- its seeds take root well in open ground and germinate well.
The crop does not require special care: it is enough to water it occasionally, if the drought persists, and weed it. She doesn't need feeding.
The noctule plant has one drawback: it is a two-year crop; it blooms only in the second year.
Iris
Iris combines a large number of varieties of different shapes and colors. The flowers are similar to an orchid, only tightly curled and with fringe at the edges. Irises are often chosen for growing in the garden, but they can also be grown indoors. One of these subspecies is Neomarica.
To achieve spectacular flowering in March, suitable conditions are created for it:
- In summer, keep it on the balcony, in a bright place, and be sure to ventilate it.
- In winter, set the temperature at 8°C-10°C, place the flower in a dark place for 2 weeks, do not water or fertilize.
All flowers are beautiful in their own way, but there is a flower that can bewitch with its magnificent, truly royal appearance. We are talking about orchid.
Have you ever been to greenhouses or landscape design centers? Is it possible to tear yourself away from the rows where orchids are displayed?
Is it possible to resist buying a copy that you especially like, despite the huge number of others that are no less beautiful? This is, indeed, with which many legends and myths are associated. And how can you not get confused among the species diversity of orchids and choose the one that you can grow yourself at home?
In this article we want to help you a little and tell you about the most popular types of orchids adapted to our window sills.
You can find a detailed description of this crop and its agricultural technology in our previous article. We advise you to read it before you begin choosing the orchid variety that suits you.
Types of orchids suitable for propagation at home
1. Cattleya
In indoor culture, this is one of the most beloved flowering orchids by gardeners. This plant owes its name to the English gardener William Cattley. The natural habitat of this species is the American tropics and subtropics (Brazil, Amazon jungle). The first Europeans to see Cattleya flowers considered it so divine that they named its varieties after Christian saints and significant dates.
Cattleya distinguished by its unusually colorfully painted lip. In addition, its flowers can take on a wide variety of colors - purple, pink, crimson, yellow...
This plant species has such interesting intergeneric hybrids as Leliocattleya, Brassocattleya, Sofroleliocattleya.
Cattleya in home culture
These orchids need warm or moderately warm content (from +15 to +30 degrees). Flowering periods are also different. But all orchids of this species need to be provided with moderate humidity, bright lighting, good ventilation, and effective drainage. Watering should be done with warm (+30-+35 degrees) softened water, but only after the substrate has completely dried. Fertilizer is recommended moderate once every three weeks during the growth period.
Advice
This type is often used in floristry for making flower arrangements - its flowers can retain their freshness for up to 6 weeks. In the summer, if you choose a dark, windless place, protected from rain, for your orchid in the garden or on the balcony, you will give not only yourself and your loved ones the pleasure of seeing a magnificent flower, but also the orchid itself - conditions close to its natural growth.
2. Cymbidium
If scandals often occur in your home, and your household members are unable to contain their irritability, then get yourself Cymbidium orchid. It is ideal for growing on a windowsill.
The orchid will gladly accept your care and will thank you not only with delicate, pastel colors, small flowers (up to 4 mm in diameter), but will also fill your home with warmth, peace and mutual understanding.
This orchid blooms in winter, and it can grow up to 70 cm in length. Its flowering period is quite long - several months.
3. Dendrobium
The name of this orchid speaks for itself, dendron– in Greek means “tree”, bios- means “life” in Greek. Dendrobiums, these typical representatives of epiphytes, there are about a hundred varieties and hybrids. In nature, the most widespread of them are Dendrobium Bouquetflower, Dendrobium Noble, Dendrobium Phalaenopsis.
Dendrobium at home
In indoor culture, they have taken root most Lindley's Dendrobium And Dendrobium Parisha. These orchids produce white, lavender or a combination of these two shades with a flowering period of about 3 weeks.
The temperature of the dendrobium is +15-+28 degrees, watering is plentiful despite the fact that the plant is quite drought-resistant. In order to form healthy flowers, it requires mandatory feeding throughout the entire growth period and bright lighting. Every two to three years, you should change the substrate in which the dendrobium grows. Normally tolerates humidity of 55-60%, subject to periodic spraying.
Advice
For the summer, it will be nice if you move the pot with the orchid to the balcony or garden, but only if you provide the plant with protection from rain, wind and direct sunlight.
5. Lelia
This genus of sympodial orchids has been known to plant growers since 1831 thanks to John Lindley. According to its appearance Lelia similar to Cattleya. The culture does well when bred at home.
Features of caring for Lelia
Laelias require cool keeping in bright, damp rooms. To ensure the required level of humidity during the growth period, this crop should be frequently sprayed with a spray bottle. During flowering and dormancy, spraying is stopped.
In summer, Lilies should be protected from the bright rays of the sun by shading. During this period, plants need abundant watering. But from the end of summer and throughout the fall, this crop needs to be provided with bright lighting and fresh air. At this time, new shoots ripen. In winter, Lilley reduces the intensity of watering.
6. Miltonia (Miltoniopsis)
German gardeners call it the “pansy” orchid for its resemblance to this flower. Natural habitat Miltonia- American tropics. Moreover, in Colombia there are cold-loving species of Miltonia, growing on the rocky slopes of mountains, and heat-loving species, found in the Brazilian jungle.
Features of the content of Miltonia
For this type of orchid, the concept of “heat-loving” is relative. Because even Brazilian Miltonia prefers a year-round average temperature of +21-+23 degrees during the daytime and +13-+15 degrees at night. Humidity and watering conditions are increased.
In summer and spring, protection from direct sun is required. It will be nice if for the summer you remove Miltonia from the windowsill and into the interior of the room. But at any time this orchid needs a gentle flow of fresh air. At the end of flowering, the temperature of the plant should be lowered to +14 degrees.
The root system of this type of orchid is thinner and less fleshy compared to other species, so make sure that its soil is evenly moistened at all times. The watering regime in summer is intensive, in winter – moderate. Considering the delicate weak structure of the Miltoniopsis root system, do not allow the nutrient substrate to become waterlogged or dry out. Otherwise, you risk losing the plant.
7. Paphiopedilum
This orchid, with such an unpronounceable name, is the famous “ lady's slipper". The shape of a woman's shoe is given to this flower by a bag-like lip, characteristic of flowers of this species. This orchid comes from the subtropical regions of Asia. This is a terrestrial type of orchid.
Features of growing Paphiopedilum
Not all varieties of this species are used as indoor crops, but only those that are adapted to being kept in warm rooms during winter. As a rule, these are hybrids of Paphiopedilum (Paphiopedilum Milenky, Paphiopedilum Remarkable, Paphiopedilum Sukhakula, Paphiopedilum Spicer, Paphiopedilum Callosum).
Depending on the type, "Venus's slippers" can bloom either in winter or in summer, and flowering can last from several weeks to 2.5 months. In addition to the attractive original flower, these plants have spectacular variegated leaves.
The temperature regime for keeping the crop is +18-+25 degrees, watering is plentiful. Make sure that the substrate in which the orchid grows does not dry out. Feeding mode - moderate, replacement of the substrate and pot - after a year or two, lighting mode - shaded, ambient humidity - 50-70%.
Advice
This plant can safely spend summer in the fresh air, on the balcony or, of course, in a place protected from rain, direct light and wind.
8. Wanda
Another famous type of orchids. Name "Wanda" translated from Sanskrit means a variety of orchid. This plant is distinguished by two types of leaf shapes - flat and cylindrical. Long flower stalks produce many large flowers that grow from the axils of the leaves. This species can produce flowers of a color uncharacteristic for orchids - blue. Almost all varieties Wanda have a pleasant aroma. The orchid blooms from late autumn to early winter.
Vanda in indoor culture
For this species, breeders have bred many hybrids, but keeping them in an apartment is not so easy, but it is possible.
First of all, Wanda needs a lot of light and high humidity. In winter, the temperature should not be allowed to drop to +13 degrees. And in the summer, this orchid can be moved to the fresh air of a loggia or summer cottage - it can calmly withstand even streams of direct rays of the sun.
9. Bletilla
Bletilla, a beautifully flowering, herbaceous orchid growing from the ground, came to us from East Asia. There, some of its varieties are used in landscape design as an ornamental plant.
Features of Bletilla content
For breeding at home, the Bletilla hybrid is usually used - Bletilla hyacinthina.
The resting period of this orchid begins in the fall, after the leaves die. Therefore, it should be kept at low temperatures - +5-+13 degrees. No watering is carried out. If you cannot provide the plant with a period of cold dormancy, then do not expect flowers from it.
But if everything turned out fine with the dormancy regime, then in the spring Bletilla will definitely delight you with beautiful flowers. In summer, a flowerpot with an orchid can be taken out onto the loggia or into the garden, and you don’t have to worry about darkening it - it can easily tolerate the bright sun. Just don’t forget to water this beauty with large flowers abundantly and regularly.
10. Vuilstekeara
This unusually spectacular orchid was born in 1914 as a result of the hard work of Flemish breeders - crossing Miltonia, Cochlyodes and Odontoglossum. That is why the orchid’s lip has a beautiful painting and the flower resembles a bright star.
This hybrid was originally bred for breeding in almost unheated rooms. Just a century ago, a more expensive flower could not have been found. The most popular are orchids V. Edna, V. Cambria, V. Monica V. Plush, V. Linda Isler.
Caring for Vuilstekeara at home
This orchid has special requirements for fresh air and good moisture. Subsequent watering should be carried out only after the substrate has completely dried. In winter, the intensity of watering should be significantly reduced. But the plant is not left without moisture, spraying the substrate daily with a spray bottle, trying not to touch the flowers. Temperature mode:
- for winter at night - +13-+18 degrees, during the day - +18-+20 degrees, a short-term decrease in night temperature to +5 degrees is allowed,
- In summer, the orchid feels great in the fresh air of a balcony or under the dense crown of a tree in a summer cottage or in the garden.
If you do not have the opportunity to put the orchid outside, then place Vuilstekear's flowerpot on the eastern windowsill.
This orchid can bloom for 2 months, and the peduncle of an adult plant branches. You can achieve re-blooming if you provide coolness for two weeks in the fall at a temperature of +12-+13 degrees at night.
These common orchids occupy a leading position in their elegance, have long peduncles and bloom for months. In addition, this is one of the budget varieties of orchids, so it is available to any gardener.
Features of growing Phalaenopsis
Phalaenopsis is quite suitable for growing at home at temperatures from +18 to +30 degrees. The orchid requires moderate watering. But the soil should be watered only after it is completely dry.
The feeding regime is also moderate, once every ten days. Replace the substrate and pot every two years. Lighting mode – darkened southern or south-eastern window sill in summer and light southern window sill in winter. Calmly tolerates low apartment humidity from 40 to 70%.
1. Dracula simia orchid
The Almighty was in a great mood when he created this miracle of nature and painted a funny monkey face on the petals of Dracula simia. This plant is forced to imitate someone all the time in order to survive in nature and continue its genus.
2. Vanilla
Yes, this is the same vanilla, the ovaries of which we are accustomed to use as a sweet spice, dried by a special method, and belongs to the genus of fragrant orchids. Vanilla is the only representative of this genus that people use for food.
This is another original type of fragrant orchid; its flowers not only resemble violets in appearance, but are also capable of emitting an incredibly pleasant smell at night and in cloudy weather.
In our country, this orchid is protected by law because it is extremely rare. The natural habitat of this orchid, unusual in its shape and color, is the carbonate soils of lowland swamps, limestone quarries and marshy meadows of Asia Minor and Europe.
4. Makodes petola
These orchids have extremely beautiful foliage, but their flowers are small and inexpressive. Therefore they grow Makodes petolu solely for the sake of its precious leaves, covered with silver or golden streaks and veins. This group includes a number of genera such as Macodes, Ludisia, Anectohilus, Gudiera originating from the tropics. Habitat: forest floor, tree trunks.
These terrestrial plants do not have a dormant period. Orchids produce creeping, strong, fleshy shoots at the top of which short-petioled, velvety, round leaves of emerald color sprout from a loose rosette. The leaves of Makodes petola are covered with veins that shine in the sun. Against their background, reddish-brown white-lipped flowers look like poor relatives. The flowering period is autumn - winter, but is it really of interest to us in this case?
5. Oncidium
This is a charming butterfly orchid with flowers of golden color and intricate shape. In total, 100 species of this resident of the American tropics are known. They mainly prefer mountainous areas.
The Brazilians called these orchids butterflies - it is in their country that specimens resembling this insect are found. And among American plant growers it is customary to call this beautiful orchid a “dancing doll.” Pragmatic Germans call it the calloused orchid because it has warty growths on its lip.
The flowering period of this species is autumn – winter. Bird-beak Oncidium produces flowers in the shape of a bird's beak that smell like vanilla. And the most unpretentious ones to breed are Oncidium Kudoyavy, Oncidium Forbesa, Oncidium Wide.
In the video you will see for yourself how beautiful orchids are.
And finally, we want to bring Some tips on what to pay attention to when purchasing an orchid in a store, garden center or nursery:
- the most suitable place to replenish the orchid collection is a nursery,
- when purchasing, be sure to inquire about the type of orchid, the preferred conditions for keeping it, and not just ask, but write it down on paper or ask for a printout with a description,
- buy only flowering orchids, otherwise you not only risk buying a pig in a poke, having no idea about the color or shape of the flowers, but also buying a diseased plant,
- don’t be fooled by discounts, free cheese is in a mousetrap, orchid flowers should be bright, fresh, strong and elastic, there should be no torn or dried flowers on the peduncles,
- carefully examine the leaves, they should have a uniform emerald green or reddish green color, and there should be no dark spots or yellowed areas on them. The foliage should not be limp or dried out.
- the roots should be hard and fleshy, it would be nice if some of them came out of the substrate, this is a sign of good health of the plant,
- After you are sure that you have chosen a viable plant, ask the seller to package the orchid so as not to expose it to large atmospheric changes and damage during transportation.
Happy shopping!
