Everyone will have his or her favorite flower, but there’s a reason that orchids have been so popular since their introduction to Victorian society over 100 years ago. Orchids are exquisite.

Orchids are available in four different varieties. Epiphytes – cling to the tree as they grow Lithophytes – known for growing on rocks. Saprophytes – grow in leaf litter. Terrestrials – grows in sand.Between these four categories, you will discover that there is an abundant number of distinct plants.

Native orchid species number more than 20,000 known species, which leaves us to believe that may be many not discovered yet. In addition to the native species, over 100,000 hybrids have been created artificially with cultivators. It has been a busy one hundred years for the orchid family.

Orchids often have the reputation for being difficult to grow, but this can be misleading. Some orchids do indeed require tender loving care. But many are very hardy. Some orchids prefer the high heat and humidity traditionally associated with this family of plants. But others will do just fine in cooler, dryer conditions. The range of light, temperature and growing conditions is another reflection of the variety of natural conditions in which they’re found.

In those conditions we find genera that range from the lovely Phalaenopsis to the even lovelier Cymbidium and many others. There are orchids that hail from Africa and those native to South America. In fact, orchids occur in the wild on every continent (except Antarctica) and on many islands. Hawaii is an excellent example of the latter, sometimes called Orchid Island because of its numerous species.

They do require some care, of course. Like any living thing, they are subject to a number of pests and diseases. Spider mites, aphids and snails are common problems. Fungi and bacteria, along with several viruses, are known to attack orchids. But prevention and cure is not too difficult.

Techniques range from simple brushing or washing off the flowers and leaves to mild anti-bacterial compounds. Fungi can be treated by drying, anti-fungicides and other methods. Sometimes simple isolation is enough to prevent spreading and the plant will cure itself with a little pruning and proper watering and potting.

Choosing the right orchid is sometimes the most difficult part of caring for them. The wide range of shapes, colors and sizes can overwhelm the orchid lover’s senses. Catalogs give choices with every imaginable option – leaves or none, growth height, mature flower size. Finding the perfect fit can be an adventure.

No matter what type of flower you love, large or small, dainty and delicate or intricate and showy, there is the right plant for your garden or greenhouse. Have fun searching for the perfect fit to add to your orchard flower collection. Even if it’s a first flower, it will become a collection.

For information on another beautiful tropical flower, the Plumeria flower visit our site.