Spots, Stripes, Swirls, and Splotches: Orchids with Variegated Leaves
Variegated plants are in vogue these days, just like they have been many times throughout history. Centuries before Instagram made them the latest fad, orchid lovers in East Asia noticed leaf color variations in Cymbidiums and Samurai Orchids, and began cultivating them. Of course, many plant varieties besides orchids have colorful leaves, too. Gardens around the globe have long been decorated by their rich hues and fascinating patterns.
There are so many variegated orchids that these 15 examples are just a drop in the bucket. Entire branches of the orchid family tree feature variegation. There are hundreds or maybe thousands of Paph varieties and Jewel Orchids with multicolor leaves. Moth Orchids, Dendrobiums, Vanillas, and Epidendrums may have them. Some terrestrials have them, likely as camouflage to help them blend into the forest floor. Colors can include different shades of green, white, yellow, silver, red, pink, or purple.
These orchids can be divided into two categories: those where variegation is the usual form, and those where it’s an unusual mutation. The first eight photos in this post show varieties where it’s the usual form. The last seven photos, starting with the Vanilla planifolia vine, show ones with mutations. These mutants may sometimes revert to growing their typical all-green leaves. If so, it may be necessary to cut off the all-green growth, and only allow the variegated parts to remain.
The final row of photos highlights the centuries-long traditions of cultivating variegated East Asian orchids. Patterned Samurai Orchids, Cymbidiums, and others, like the Phalaenopsis japonica (also known as Sedirea japonica) in the final photo, can command extraordinary prices among orchid lovers. Flawlessly raised in stunning flowerpots, they are each treasured works of art. They also exemplify why variegated plants are always in fashion.
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