Orchid Types: The Gold Of Kinabalu - The Most Expensive Orchid

When orchids first came out, they were considered to be plants for the rich and affluent only

. They were seen in gardens of the famous and were a symbol of class and of high status. Nowadays anyone can access these plants. Orchids have been one of the most inexpensive plants in the world. With over 32,000 known species, there is certainly one that will fit in your budget.

But did you know that in Asia there is one rare species of orchid considered as the most expensive of all? Yes, the flowers of this type are considered by orchids growers like gold itself. They are known as the Kinabalu orchids.

If you are wondering what Kinabalu is, then here is the answer. Mount Kinabalu, as it is more popularly known, is located in the Southeast region of Asia belonging to the country of Malaysia. The Kinabalu National Park, a World Heritage Site, houses one of the most expensive orchids in the world. These orchids have been dubbed the "Gold of Kinabalu".

Also known as the King of the Paphs, the Paphiopedilum rothschildianu (also called "Rothschild's slipper orchid" named after the person who discovered it) can cost up to $5,000 per stem.

Why are they so expensive? The reason is this species of orchid is considered to be an endangered one. It's so rare that its flowers can take up to 15 years before they can bloom.

The flowers are amazingly beautiful. They flaunt green petals with red spots. Its upper and lower petals look more like stripes from afar, while two of its side petals are extremely long and dangly. Its thin stem can hold up to six flowers horizontally, which give them the appearance of being huge. Its leaves are semi-translucent, and it thrives near places with lots of water and humidity.

The flower reproduces by attracting insects to lay on its petals. Because of its spotted flowers, to insects it looks like aphids. Once insects like parasitic flies land on the petals, the flowers attach their pollen to it. Like some of its exotic orchid cousins, it imitates insects to successfully transfer pollen from one plant to another

All orchid types used to be the most expensive plants. Nowadays, because of the variety they have been made available for everyone at prices that are very affordable. At the cost of $5,000 per stem, this orchid is certainly still classified as expensive and reserved only for the ones who can afford it.

by: Mary Ann Berdak

POST COMMENT

Precaution & Mandatory Care Required For Cattleya Orchid Orchid Types - The Vampire Orchids Orchid Types: Tiger Orchids - Largest Orchids To Date Orchid Types: Calypso Orchid - The Little Giant Orchid Care Instructions - Orchids Are Aliens Caring For Orchids - The Orchid Addiction Learn Tips & Techniques From Orchid Nurseries Orchid Care Instructions - Watering Is An Art When Growing Cymbidium Orchids Growing Orchids For Beginners - Beginners' Quick Start To Growing Orchids Orchid Care - Why To Avoid Heat Damage With Your Orchids Alliance Orchid Springs Popular Varieties Of Orchid Flowers You Have To Know The Right Way To Look After Phalaenopsis Orchids