Orchid Plants

Orchid Plants
Submitted By: Robin Storms

Orchids are the favorites of horticulturists’ world over, due to the intricate and colorful designs of their blossoms. So intricate are orchid blossoms that they have long been compared to snowflakes. To date, there have been at least 35000 orchid species identified and many more may be discovered.

While orchids are tremendously popular, maintaining live orchids can be very demanding. Temperature, humidity and light are the main factors to take into account. Although orchids are usually thought of as tropical, most orchids will die if they are watered too often.

The hard work involved in growing live orchids leads many enthusiasts to the silk varieties instead. The most popular varieties of artificial orchids are: Phalaenopsis orchids, Dendrobium orchids, Cattleya orchids, Vanda orchids and Cymbidium orchids.

Silk Phalaenopsis orchids have a long, tapering stem with large, flat flower. The two most popular varieties are the Royal and the Deluxe. The Royal Phalaenopsis is typically available as a 36” specimen in white or lavender. The Deluxe Phalaenopsis generally exhibits a richer color and is available as a 34” specimen. Smaller 27” artificial silk specimens are also available, typically ranging in price from $17 to $25.

Dendrobium orchids are one of the versatile varieties. These orchids tend to favor trees or rocks and are well-known for their striking colors. Popular artificial silk varieties are 25” in height and come in an exquisite white or purple. The red variety is also quite lovely in a decorative arrangement.

Cattleya orchids are slow-flowering, typically taking anywhere between 5 to 7 years to produce their first dramatic bloom. This makes them very popular as an artificial silk variety. A very fashionable variety is the 14” mini Cattleya which comes in a wide range of colors but is most striking in purple or gold. This orchid is also available in yellow, orange and white.

Vanda orchids can definitely be considered as the most sought after type because of their exotic colors. These artificial silk orchids are typically sold as silk flowers arrangements but 30” single orchids are available. The top sellers in this particular variety are the purple and burgundy artificial silk specimens.

Cymbidium orchids are one of the first varieties to be identified very early and retain their appeal even to this day. While they are typically tall, with a stalk that can reach up to 2 feet in height, beautiful miniature artificial silk varieties are available. The intricacy of the Cymbidium blooms is unmatched by most other varieties. Arrangements typically retail at $80 while individual miniature specimens range from $15 to $20.

Our silk orchids need not be watered and require minimum attention. They have an added advantage in that they are hypoallergenic as there are no seeds or pollen to contend with. Artificial silk orchids retain their color much longer than the natural varieties and, as they are not dependent on sunlight so they can be moved to any area of the home or office.