History

• Throughout history people have been fascinated with the lovely orchid varieties. They have collected them and used them for adornment. Orchids were used as aphrodisiacs and in herbal remedies during the Middle Ages since they were thought to have healing properties. The Chinese believed orchids were beneficial in treating cough and upper respiratory illnesses The Aztecs drank a mixture of vanilla orchid and chocolate, because they believed it gave them power and strength. For centuries the orchid has been viewed as a symbol of love, luxury and beauty.
  
  

Features

• Orchids are admired for their beauty and fragrance. Orchids are a very diverse plant species. They can be found in a wide variety of habitats including grassy plains, tundra, desert, swamps, mountains and rain forests. There are more than 25,000 species of orchids. Some species are more difficult to grow yet others are very adaptable and make perfect houseplants.
  
  

Identification

• Orchids are divided into two basic groups known as monopodial and symposia based on their growth pattern. The monopodial group is characterized by a central stem which grows continuously from the tip. The flowers are produced from the stem usually in a alternating manner from side to side. The sympodial group possesses a rhizome that sends out a shoot which develops into the stem and leaves. The buds may or may not be protected by a sheath. Basically, you can distinguish between the two types by remembering that the sympodial group grows horizontally like a vine whereas the monopodial group grows upward from a single stem.
  
  

Types

• There are more species of orchid than any other flower in the world. Some of the most common and popular orchids include cattleya, phalaenopsis, dendrobium, oncidium, cymbidiums, paphiopedilums, phalaenopsis, vandas, anota violacea, brassavola and epidendrum. Cattleya, known as Queen of the Orchids is one of the most familiar types of orchids. It is a beautiful flower with a wonderful fragrance. Cattleya blooms once or twice per year and is easy to grow. Phalaenopsis is known as the Moth Orchid. It is a popular and adaptable variety that flowers in shades of pink, yellow and read. The moth orchid is a good choice for a houseplant. There are about 1500 species of denrobium. They grow throughout the summer and rest in the winter. Most species of oncidium bloom once per year. Some species prefer warm temperatures whereas others do fine in cooler climate but overall they can withstand diverse habitat. Cymbidiums produce beautiful fragrant flowers. They can tolerate cool temperatures. Paphiopedilums come in various sizes, shapes and colors. They make popular houseplants since they are easily grown indoors. Phalaenopsis is another ideal houseplant as it thrives in a warm climate. Vandas have large, vibrant flowers that love light, warmth and humidity. Anota violacea enjoy temperate climates and bloom in both winter and spring. Brassavola flourish in warm to temperate climates and blossom often. Epidendrum has a variety of both large and small flowers. There are a variety of beautiful and fragrant hybrids as well.
  
  

Geography

• Orchids are found most everywhere around the world. In fact, Antarctica is the only continent where orchids do not grow naturally. Cattleya and brassavola orchids originated in Central and South America. Phalaenopsis are native to Asia and Australia. Denrobium have a wide distribution and can be found in China, Japan, Asia, Australia and India. Oncidium is native to Mexico as well as Central and South America. Cymbidiums are native to the foothills of the Himalayas. Paphiopedilums and vandas are native to Southeast Asia. Anota violacea are found in the Phillippines. Many orchids are now threatened or endangered.
  
  

Significance

• There are many beautiful and fragrant varieties of flowers but orchids captivate many with their exotic presence. People have collected the more rare varieties of orchids which in some ways have aided the diminished appearance of these flowers. Increasing destruction of natural habitat has also played a role in the endangerment of many of these wild beauties. Many varieties of orchids are commonly available in floral arrangements or to raise as houseplants.