Orchidaceae, commonly referred to as the 0rchid family. It is currently believed to be the second largest family of flowering plants in the world with over 25,000 species of orchids and more than 100,000 hybrids. The number of orchid types equals more than twice the number of bird species, and about four times the number of mammal species.
In fact there are only two different types, which are terrestrial and epiphytes. Terrestrial orchids grow on the ground and the Epiphytes grow in trees. There are approximately two hundred to two hundred and fifty types native here in the United States, with about half of them native to the state of Florida.
Terrestrial types are among the most popular, and were some of the first species to be cultivated. This species grow on the ground and also grow on rocks and trees. Their native habitat ranges from Japan, Australia and southeast Asia.
These can be found in a wide range of sizes and shapes and their blossoms come in a wide spectrum of colors and are known for their amazing fragrance. Cymbidium orchid types are known for this type and there are approximately 40 species and thousands of hybrids. Cymbidium are a good choice for beginners to grow.
Epiphytes species refers to a plant which has a root system above ground, which allows them to absorb nutrients and water. Dendrobiums with over 1000 species are best known for this type of root system and are native to South East Asia, Polynesia, Australia, and Northern India. These areas are tropical and have warm, humid conditions which are ideal for Dendorbiums and grow very well when kept moist and warm. A large majority of orchid types grown around the world are epiphytes.
Many of these orchid types are grown on wood or cork, in pots and in baskets in loose or porous media.
Here are some of the more common orchid types found.
Anguloa (Tulip Orchid) - Dendrobium (Bamboo or Singapore ) - Vanda coerulea (Blue Orchid) - Catasetum pileatum (Mother of Pearl flower) - Cattleya (Queen of Orchids) - Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) - Epidendrum (Poor Man's Orchid) - Sophrontis (MiniCatts) - Cymbidium (Boat Orchid) - Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper) - Brassia (Spider Orchid) - Miltonia (Pansy Orchid) - Laelia anceps (The Bull) - Oncidium (Dancing Ladies) - Bulbophyllum (Black Orchid) - Phaius (Yellow Crane )
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