AboutOrchids

An intimidating Latin name, Paphiopedilum venustum, threatens to distract from this beautiful Paph. Fortunately, that translates to the very pronounceable “Charming Lady Slipper.” The Latin for “Stunning Lady Slipper” might fit better, but perhaps that name was already taken. Indeed, “charming” seems an understatement for this wonderful species from the southern slopes of the Himalayas. It grows in the shade of dense bamboo jungles in northeastern India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.

Besides the name Charming Lady Slipper, it’s also known as the Snakeskin Orchid. That’s not inspired by the fascinating veins on the flower pouch, but by the blue and green patterning on the leaves. In the wild, it grows as a terrestrial, and enjoys the monsoon rains, which have just started in southern India. In cultivation, this orchid requires daily watering, and can handle cooler temps during winter dormancy. Several color variations exist. Along with yellow color forms, many have red and maroon hues.

Shows wind down in the Northern Hemisphere as summer approaches, but orchid lovers down under have lots of choices. In Canada, the Bruce Peninsula Orchid Festival is not a show, but a chance to enjoy Ontario’s native orchids blooming in the wild. It includes presentations and tours with orchid experts (reservations required.)

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By the end of May, San Francisco’s rainy season has usually given way to the dry season, but this year’s weather seems anything but typical. Fortunately we’ve had nothing like the violent storms in other parts of the country. Instead, a cool, wet spring is keeping the garden well hydrated. The light rains and mild temps have eased my watering duties, allowing me to concentrate on other seasonal chores:

• The end of winter dormancy means regular and thorough watering. Cymbidiums, Paphs, Masdevallias, and Miltonias need daily watering, but for others, there’s no single formula for how often to water. New leaves and roots, longer hours of light, and warm days all require extra water.
• Only the most sun-loving Vandas and Epidendrums should remain in direct midday or afternoon sun. Many orchids will enjoy morning sun. All need extra shade during hot summer days.
• Fertilize regularly. Standard orchid advice is “weakly, weekly,” which means a dilute solution repeated on a regular schedule.
• Most orchids need repotting every 2 – 3 years. Spring is the ideal time, as flowers fade and new leaves and roots start to grow. Check here to see if you need to repot your orchid.

Costa Rica has added even more orchids to its remarkable biodiversity. Near the border with Panama, in a previously unexplored region of La Amistad International Park, scientists from Lankester Botanical Garden have discovered 10 new species. Finding new orchids isn’t unusual, but it’s astounding that researchers found so many in a small area during a single 4-hour expedition.

Costa Rica is home to over 1300 orchid species. For comparison, the country is smaller than West Virginia, which has 35 native orchid species. Costa Rica’s national flower is a variety of Cattleya, the beautiful purple Guaria morada.

The story’s been told many times before, e.g. The Orchid Thief, but tragically, it never dies. The BBC has an update on the “Invasion of the orchid snatchers,” collectors who illegally take orchids from the wild. The article includes info about several orchids, including Phrag kovachii, the giant purple lady slipper discovered in Peru in 2001. That tale is one of many which illustrates the sad history of irresponsible orchid collectors, whose greed and selfishness endanger the survival of rare species. Dr. Richard Thomas of Traffic International, a group that monitors wildlife trade, explains “The loss of any one species is a tragedy – the world needs rich biological diversity to survive. Species have taken millennia to evolve, but can be lost in days.” Responsible growers should never take orchids from the wild, or buy wild-collected plants. Purchase only from reputable vendors to enjoy orchids without endangering them. If you’re not sure, ask.

Over the years, I’ve looked at lots of pictures of Stanhopeas to try to figure them out. It’s easy to see that the blossoms are large, showy, and unusual. It’s harder to make sense of their incredible shapes. They could be fantastic birds, weird bugs, or strange humanoids. So if these photos leave you somewhat mystified, you’re not alone.

These flowers don’t last long, only 2 or 3 days. They have a strong, sweet fragrance. Blooms descend from the bottom of the plant. That’s not a problem when growing as epiphytes, but in cultivation, Stanhopeas require a basket or mount. They need fairly bright light, heavy water, regular fertilizer, and winter dormancy. I haven’t been able to grow them myself (the first 6 photos are from the Conservatory of Flowers, 2 are from local orchid shows, and the last one is from Phipps Conservatory.)  Most are large plants, and they’re best suited for growers with a greenhouse, or those who can keep them outdoors in tropical areas.

Different Stanhopea varieties below show more diversity in the family. They’re native to Central and South American rainforests, from Mexico south to Brazil. Most types want intermediate temps, but there are also warm and cool growers. If these flowers have left you a little befuddled, explore more Stanhopea photos online, and maybe you can figure them out.

Check out these two short videos to explore the brand new Miller Nature Preserve near Cleveland, Ohio. With 83 acres (34 hectares) of woodlands and a 5000 square feet (465 square meters) conservatory, it’s already a destination. Besides an extensive orchid collection, the conservatory has tropical plants, bonsai trees, carnivorous plants, fountains, and waterfalls. Enjoy its debut flower show through July 17. Conservatory admission is a mere $2. The first video below shows a beautiful white and purple Cattleya midway through. The second video includes a brilliant yellow Dendrobium toward the end. Read more about Miller Nature Preserve at Cleveland.com.

If you’re admiring a beautiful orchid gift, and you’re worried about killing it, take a deep breath and relax. Common orchid varieties don’t deserve their finicky reputations, and don’t require a green thumb. With a few care basics, they can keep their exotic tropical flowers for weeks or months. Most orchids sold today are sturdy hybrids, and you can care for them with a few tips:

• When you water, water thoroughly, and then let the water drain completely from the pot. Never allow the pot to sit in water for an extended time, or the roots will rot.
• You’ll eventually have to remove ribbons, wrapping paper, or decorative containers if they block the holes in the bottom of the flower pot. Orchids need good air flow and water drainage around their roots.
• All orchids need high humidity. Dry air can lead to wilting flowers, drying leaves, and pests.
• It will help to identify your orchid so you can learn its specific light, temperature, and water needs. You don’t need to figure out its exact name, only the family of orchids where it belongs.
• Phals, or Moth Orchids, are the most common varieties sold. Other common types include Cattleyas, Epidendrums, Oncidiums, and Paphs.
• If you can’t identify your orchid, use these basic care tips.
• Check AboutOrchids for more helpful info, growing tips, FAQ, and great photos.

Ever since orchids exploded in popularity in Europe in the 1850’s, orchid lovers have crossbred them. By blending genes of different species, and then choosing the best and sturdiest offspring, breeders have developed combinations with hybrid vigor. Complementary traits from both parents produce tougher plants. Hybrids are easy to grow and flower, and hardy enough to survive a little neglect. They often have larger, more frequent, and longer-lasting blooms. With basic orchid instructions, they’re as easy as any houseplant. These 6 examples are a drop in the bucket of countless orchid crosses.

Hybrid vigor makes these excellent choices for orchid beginners. If you’re buying from a supermarket or department store, you’re probably buying a hybrid. If you’re buying from a florist or garden center, it’s likely to be a hybrid, but ask if you’re not sure. Orchid species have more finicky care needs, and are better suited for experienced growers. If it’s a gift for Mother’s Day, a birthday, or to cheer somebody up, the superior qualities of a hybrid will brighten the day.

Orchid show across 6 continents are ready to dazzle and amaze. Many are perfectly timed for Mother’s Day. Later in the month, the Chelsea Flower Show in London will strut its stuff as the most famous garden show in the world. Expect plenty of orchids among its many extraordinary exhibits.

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