subject: Types of Orchids [print this page] There are two main types of orchids: There are two main types of orchids:
- Terrestrial Orchids
- Epiphytes Orchids
So what is the difference between the two? In a nutshell, Terrestrials are like many plants found in the wild and grow mainly in the ground. Epiphytes, on the other hand, have been known to grow on just about anything, including but not limited to: trees, rocks, poles and more.
Most of the very popular and common orchid types that you are likely to find at the shops tend to be of the terrestrial variety, or at least semi-terrestrial, meaning that they will grow in the ground and also on trees & rocks, etc. One such semi-terrestrial is the Cymbidium Orchid, which boasts over forty different species and hybrids, and is found not only in the ground, but also on trees, rocks and just about anything else. Cymbidiums are native to Japan and Australia and were one of the very first orchids to be cultivated by man. They are also very easy to maintain, making them an ideal selection for beginners.
Possibly the best-known Epiphytes Orchid is the Dendrobium, which does not bloom as much as the Cymbidiums and also require a lot more work. Dendrobiums can be found in all the same spots as the Cymbidiums as well as Polynesia. A tropical plant, they need to be kept moist and warm. Interested in the perfect beautiful colorful wedding flower, maybe something in yellow, pink, or even stripes? Try the Phalaenopsis orchid.
Epiphytic orchids are curious things. They can grow on trees, rocks, or just about any other structure. They do not receive their nourishment from whatever that they grow on (have you ever heard of getting nourishment from a rock?). They grow long roots and get nourishment from whatever later grows between the roots and the surface they grow on.
