The Most Popular Orchid Species

Many people consider orchids to be the most beautiful plants in the world. They are thought of as exotic and sensual and can fill your home with their breathtaking colors. Orchid blooms are truly spectacular, and some plants have unique color combinations that make them a desirable and attractive addition to any home. However, choosing among the varieties of this plant may be a difficult decision. There are over 25,000 species of orchids, and although many of these types will not be available in your area, you will still be faced with choosing among a variety of pretty plants.

Popular Orchid Species

Perhaps the best way to narrow down your choices is to look at some of the more popular orchid species. These particular varieties have been developed for their adaptability to a home environment and are relatively easy to care for. Dendrobiums are at the top of this list. This species of orchids offer a wide variety of colors, from white to purple to yellow. Originally found in most of Asia as well as the Philippines, Australia, New Guinea and Borneo, these plants are in great demand. Because of their desirability, hobbyists have created hybrids for this orchid species.

Cattleya is another popular orchid species that is naturally found in parts of South America and Asia. The blooms of this plant are especially gorgeous. The colors are usually, white, yellow or a deep purple. An interesting aspect of the Cattleya is that it gracefully spreads out, rather than grows in a compact pattern. The orchid species, Vanda, has a very unique look and exotic flowers. The leaves come out from a single stalk with the flowers growing from one of the leaf's bases. The blooms can number anywhere from five to twenty per plant. This orchid species originally made its home in China, Australia, the Himalayas, Indonesia and New Guinea.

Choosing the Right Species of Orchids

While these three species of orchids are both popular and beautiful, there are literally thousands of varieties in the world. The key to choosing the species that is right for you is dependent on where you live and what type of environment you will be offering the plants. With the increasing demand for orchids, and more people becoming orchid enthusiasts, growers are experimenting and developing new hybrids. These plants are often hardier for the indoor gardener to enjoy, while being easier to care for by the novice. With all of these recent changes, now is the best time to start a lifetime hobby of growing these impressive plants.