Understand Various Orchids Types To Successfully Grow These Dazzling-Looking Plants

If you were do some research into the different orchids types, you might be surprised that although there are hundreds of species and a large quantity of hybrids, there are only two types. The first and, most known type, are terrestrial orchids that grow above ground. The second type is the epiphytes orchids, which can be found on rocks, trees and poles.

A Brief Look At Both Orchids Types: Terrestrial and Epiphytes

Terrestrial - The most popular type is the terrestrial. Plants of this type will have roots that grow below the surface of the soil. However, in your search for an orchid plant, you may also come across another type called a semi-terrestrial, which means roots are growing both below and above the soil.

The Origin and Environment Of The Cymbidium
During your research for terrestrial types, you're going to come across the cymbidium, which has 40 species and hundreds upon hundreds of hybrids. This species was the first to be refined; it not only grows on the ground but it can be seen on trees and rocks. These plants love the loose humus of rotted wood and decayed leaves. They can be found in Southwest Asia near Japan as well as Australia. The biggest reason for these types popularity stems from the fact that it takes not much effort to make them bloom. Thus, novice gardeners can become pros so long as they care for the flowers right.

What You See With Dendrobiums and Phalaenopsis

Epiphytes - This type encompasses a wide variety of orchid species. Any orchid plant with an above ground root system is an epiphytes type. If you're not sure if you've ever seen this type, then head to your local nursery or do a search on the Internet and check out the dendrobiums. The only issue some gardeners have with these kinds is that they need more care than the cymbidiums. Orchids of this type (there are over 1,000) also do not flower effortlessly. You can find these plants in the tropical regions of:
- Southeast Asia
- Polynesia
- Australia
- Northern India

Since orchids natural habitat is in the tropics, they must have a warm, humid environment and keep moist to thrive. Another popular orchid is the Phalaenopsis; it's also quite easy to grow with flowers that bloom for a good long period of time. Weddings generally have this species in shades of pinks, yellows or stripes.

These plants can grow on trees, placing their roots on the bark and branches to obtain any organic matter that grows between them; this is how the plant gets its nutrients. During periods of wet and dry spells, the roots of this plant can keep it healthy. When it rains, the roots cover will soak up water and hold it until it needs to be released. When no matter what can be taken in, the cover will turn green. These types can be also be seen on rocks.

Regardless if they're suspended in trees or gripping to rocks, the epiphytes will thrive with the right air and light amounts that they receive.

Tim Yale is an orchid expert.

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