Although there are many, many different species and hybrids of orchids, there are actually only two different types of orchids.One type of orchid is the terrestrial orchids which are species that grow on the ground.The other type of orchid is the epiphytes orchids which grow in trees, rocks or on poles.
The most popular variety of orchids come from the terrestrial species of orchids.Although terrestrial orchids have roots that grow beneath the surface of the soil just like most other kinds of plants, some terrestrial orchids are semi-terrestrial.This means that they have both underground and aerial roots.Cymbidium orchids are a terrestrial orchid that has 40 species and thousands of hybrids.The Cymbidium orchid was among the first orchid species to be experimented on by a horticulturist.This orchid is a classic example of how terrestrials can thrive both on the ground and on vertical objects such as tree trunks.These orchids thrive best in organic matter like decomposed leaves and disintegrating bark.Cymbidium orchids can be found in their natural habitat which extends from Southeast Asia to Japan and they can also be found in Australia.Cymbidium orchids are so popular because they are easy to grow and are therefore a perfect choice for beginners.Plus, with the proper care, they will provide beautiful flowers every year.
The term epiphytes are actually not reserved to a type of orchid.It refers to any plant that has a root system above ground.Dendrobiums are the best known epiphytes orchid.Even though they grow more compared to terrestrial Cymbidiums, they require more attention and grow flowers less regularly.There are over 1000 species of them.They can be found in their natural tropical conditions of Northern India, South East Asia, Australia and Polynesia.Dendobriums require to be kept moist for it to continue growing, as its natural habitat is in humid areas in the tropics.The Phalaenopsis is another example of an epiphyte orchid. These orchids are easy to grow and have long-lasting flowers.They are often seen at weddings and can be found in various colors including pinks, yellows, and even stripes.
Epiphyte orchids thrive on elevated structures such as trees.Epiphytes, though thriving on trees, do not receive nourishment from its anchorage.They establish themselves by their fleshy roots on branches or bark of trees.The organic matter that accumulates between the roots and branches is used as nutrients for the plant. Roots of epiphytic orchids are capable of sustaining themselves through the wet and dry seasons.The tough, stringy core of the root is surrounded by a spongy off-white covering that can absorb water easily.When it rains, this cover soaks up water.An indication that it is full of water is when the outer covering turns green.The roots of the orchid serve as a reservoir that regularly releases water to the tissues to sustain it.Some epiphytic orchids are known to thrive on rocks.As they are suspended from trees or rocks, the epiphytes thrive in filtered light and always in open, airy situations.
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This post was written by admin on September 8, 2010
