subject: Orchid Identification - Call in Sherlock Holmes! [print this page] I need help in the identification of this orchid. It's Mother's Day or your birthday and you have received this most gracious gift of a stunning orchid and no clue of who it is. Well, I don't believe Mr. Holmes is available but there are others who are, first of all you. Take a deep breath and remember to exhale. There are many resources put here to help. Realize there are a vast number of species out there and there are seven common types of orchids. We will start there.
Cattleya Orchid: Best known as the corsage orchid. Lavender, white, green, red, yellow, and orange are some of the colors available for cattleya orchids. Some of the more prevalent species are Saffron Satin, Lemon chiffon and Hawaii Peach. All will be equally beautiful.
Phalaenopsis Orchid: The secondary id of this plant is Moth orchid. This orchid is by far the most popular amongst home horticulturist. They bloom only once a year with flowers that should last up to three months.
Paphioedilums Orchid: Better known by its common name, Lady Slipper. This bloom has an appearance of a pouch extending down from the petals with stripes and spots for adornment.
Cymbidium Orchid: An easy to find orchid in the local green house or big box store greenhouse, easy to grow with some maintenance. Some of the colors are white, yellow and pink. Some of the varieties are Amaranth, Apple Tea, Ballerina and Cafeteria.
Vanda Orchid: This is like its cousins, easy to grow. The blooms will be in an array of colors, blue, red, orange and yellow. These plants are native to India and the Far East. They can grow tall and can need extra support.
Oncidiums Orchid: This orchid is known as the dancing slipper. The most popular ones are Golden Girl (yellow with maroon spots), Red Fantasy (deep red with maroon lip), and Sweet Fragrance (deep red with a vanilla scent).
Dendrobium Orchid: This is the second largest orchid genus. These are primarily found in Northern India and Southeast Asia. I should not forget about Australia and Polynesia too. These orchids tend to live in trees. This variety requires a good light source.
If you can start with deciding which of the seven your orchid falls into, then the next step is even easier. There are many on line resources to use in the id of your new plant. Also, a quick trip to the local greenhouse can be of tremendous help. Matching up a picture of your most recent blooms and plant to an orchid there could be very quick. Good luck in your investigation.
