Leaves like an orchid, what a flower. The most common types of indoor orchids

Unique orchids are not without reason considered a symbol of the tropics, because they are as colorful and diverse as the whole nature of the equatorial regions of the planet. Photos of orchids, names and species are fascinating, and flower growers of all countries cause an irresistible desire to get these amazingly bright flowers in their collection.

The family includes completely different genera and species. Sometimes it is difficult to assume that a herbaceous plant a few centimeters high and inconspicuous flowers is a relative of a multi-meter liana with lush flowers and a powerful lignified trunk.

Most of them are epiphytes that have adapted to life on large representatives of the flora.

Among the orchids there are species, as in the photo, preferring to settle on rocky soil. But land plants in this large family are rare, and many of them live in regions with temperate climate, including Russia.

Indoor varieties of orchids, their photos and names always amaze with a riot of colors and incredible decorativeness of flowering. And this is no coincidence. Once in the field of view of botanists and breeding specialists, the orchid discovered interesting feature. It turned out that plants belonging to different genera and species interbreed perfectly, giving hybrids that are unique in beauty and originality. They then became the founders of modern collections.

Therefore, when purchasing a flower in a pot, it is almost impossible to accurately determine its belonging to a particular genus. The ancestors of the hybrid are indicated in the name of the orchid species, and the photo can only remotely resemble wild-growing ancestors.

Orchid phalaenopsis: photo and description

Most often, as a room culture, you can find the one depicted on. In nature, this genus of orchid plants is found in southeast Asia and Australia, where it inhabits both trees and rocky ledges in humid forests. Wild varieties can reach two meters in height, but in indoor plants smaller sizes.

For two hundred years of human acquaintance with this “moth-like”, as the name of the genus is translated from Latin, a lot of varieties and hybrid forms of phalaenopsis have been bred with a flower. Standard potted plants, together with powerful peduncles bearing up to 40 corollas, can grow up to a meter in height, and dwarf plants do not exceed 20-30 cm in height.

There are forty species in the Phalaenopsis genus, many of which are used to varying degrees as houseplants or grown in botanical gardens and greenhouses.

With a huge number of differences, the orchids included in the genus Phalaenopsis, as in the photo, have many common features. The plants are easily recognizable by their thick, aerial rhizomes, which are covered with a waxy layer and provide orchids with both moisture and nutrients. Dense leathery leaves have an oblong-oval shape and are arranged oppositely in the rosette.

An adult orchid has from 6 to 10 leaves, and in addition to plants with dark green foliage, you can find varieties not only with evenly colored, but also with variegated foliage. The range of colors of phalaenopsis will be envied by the palette of any artist. Today, flower growers are offered a choice of all shades of pink and lilac, purple and white, yellowish and even green. There are two-tone forms, plants whose corollas are decorated with contrasting veins and specks.

But if you want to buy blue or blue phalaenopsis, you should refrain from buying. This is perhaps the only shade in which the flowers are not colored naturally. All copies offered by merchants are actually painted in a special way, and the next time an unusual flower will reveal not blue, but white corollas.

Orchid dendrobium: photo and description of the flower

Dendrobium, or living on a tree, is another type of orchid, the photo and name of which are well known to all fans of this tropical culture. In nature, luxurious ornamental plants are found in many regions of Oceania, Australia and Southeast Asia.

Dendrobiums are one of the most numerous genera of orchids. Today, more than 1000 species have been discovered and described by botanists, and the first acquaintance with plants took place at the turn of the 19th century. It is not surprising that in the photo the dendrobium orchids differ so much not only in color, but also in the shape of the corollas and lush racemose inflorescences.

The brightest and most famous representative of the genus is the Dendrobium Nobile orchid shown in the photo, beloved by flower growers for its incredible flowering beauty and rather unpretentious disposition.

But other types of orchids, in the photo, in the name of which there is this generic name, are distinguished by their incredible attractiveness, and sometimes the uniqueness of their appearance.

The elongated-lanceolate leaves of epiphytic plants are not as dense as those of phalaenopsis. Dense roots are covered with a wax coating. Powerful scaly shoots in some species can reach five meters and, depending on the length, be erect or hanging.

orchid ludisia

This relatively small plant is one of the most unusual among indoor orchids. If a photo of orchid species usually strikes with an incredible number of shades and quirkiness of corollas, then the main advantage here is not flowers, but decorative foliage.

The pointed-ovoid foliage of the ludisia orchid stands out with a velvety surface covered with a bizarre pattern of light green, pinkish or yellow, depending on the plant variety, veins. The orchid is not big. The rosette barely reaches 15–17 cm in height.

Orchid bloom is not too decorative. Racemes with small fragrant white-yellow flowers, unlike other related crops that prefer to bloom in spring and summer, appear in winter.

Orchid cymbidium: photo and flower features

The types of orchids grown in a pot culture, familiar to flower growers from photos and names, can have different sizes and structures. Cymbidium is one of the most interesting representatives of orchids in home collections. In nature, plants easily reach two meters in height. But not so tall varieties are used as domestic green pets.

With growth from 50 to 100 cm, the cymbidium orchid, as in the photo, reveals extremely bright and large flowers. The corolla of this plant can reach 13 centimeters in diameter, and the color options for powerful racemose inflorescences simply cannot be counted! The uniqueness of this genus is a long flowering, up to six months, as well as the aroma of some varieties.

orchid miltonia

The South American genus of orchids has a huge number of species, most of which are herbaceous sympodial plants with large fragrant flowers.

The miltonia orchid is characterized by the lifestyle of an epiphyte, which determines its appearance. The culture has pointed-lanceolate leaves and small juicy pseudobulbs. The flowers are similar in structure to the corollas of a garden viola, but are much more bizarre and richer in shape and color.

Among the species of orchids with this name, as in the photo, there are dozens of hybrid plants. Moreover, miltonia is easily crossed even in natural conditions, giving natural hybrids.

Today, targeted selection is also underway to obtain unusual interspecific forms, of which, according to flower growers, there are already more than a dozen.

The miltonia orchid is valued by flower growers not only for the brightness of flowering, but also for its frequency. Plants of this genus can bloom several times a year, the main thing is that between the appearance of sparse racemose inflorescences, the flower has time to rest and give new shoots.

Cambria orchid: photos and bright features of the plant

One of the interspecific hybrids obtained from the miltonia orchid is the cumbria. The plant has elongated linear leaves, succulent pseudobulbs and thickened powerful shoots. The main advantage of the Cumbria orchid shown in the photo is spectacular star-shaped flowers with a contrasting pattern on the lower petal.

Plants are unpretentious and perfectly tolerate growing at home.

orchid dracula

The title of the most unusual orchid can be claimed by plants of the genus Dracula, which unites more than a hundred independent species, native to the tropical forests of the American continent. These plants began to enjoy popularity quite recently, when Asian breeders paid attention to them.

Most of the species of orchids with the name Dracula shown in the photo are epiphytes of the sympodial type. Plants settle on the branches and trunks of trees, and the corollas of an unusual shape hang down on long flexible peduncles.

On each peduncle, depending on the species, there may be one or more buds that open one after another.

A generic feature is the structure of a flower, consisting of three large fused petals and a central concave lip. The ends of the petals are elongated and sometimes look like filamentous processes hanging from the flower. The crown is located between the small petals in the center of the corolla.

The most famous flower of this genus is Dracula simia, the flower of which resembles the muzzle of a monkey. But among these plants there are more bizarre ones. An example would be the almost black orchid dracula of the vampire species, named for the truly sinister appearance of the flowers.

cattleya orchid

Orchids belonging to the Cattleya genus are considered one of the most beautiful flowers of the entire vast family. And in Brazil, these plants are completely recognized as a symbol of the country. And this is not surprising. The genus includes a great variety of species adapted to grow both in humid jungles and in arid areas under the southern sun. At the same time, Cattleya orchid flowers amaze with their richness of colors and wonderful aroma.

Flower growers are offered spectacular Cattleya hybrid plants, and you can find both species that bloom in spring and plants that open corollas closer to autumn.

Orchid vanda: photo and description of the flower

There are 53 species of plants in the genus vanda, which naturally grow in tropical regions of Asia and Australia. Among flower growers, vanda orchids, as in the photo, are considered a real gem. And this judgment has a weighty basis.

Both species and hybrid plants amaze with surprisingly elegant bright flowers on long racemose inflorescences. An adult specimen sometimes forms not one, but several peduncles, which turns the bush into a spectacular bouquet with butterfly flowers. Corollas can have a uniform and variegated color in the widest range. The orchid has beautiful erect or decumbent shoots with succulent opposite leaves and powerful roots up to two meters long. Such a look cannot fail to attract attention. And it is not surprising that in the video, orchids of this genus fascinate and make the hearts of novice flower growers and connoisseurs of tropical cultures tremble.

Video about the mysterious orchid

The genus Phalaenopsis belongs to the epiphytic plants of the Orchid family. The plant is native to the plains and forests of Southeast Asia, the Philippines and northeast Australia. The characteristic structure of plants belonging to this genus includes:

Long vertical stem.
Several large fleshy leaves arranged in two rows.
Large velvety flowers, similar to exotic butterflies.

Thanks to these flowers, phalaenopsis got its name, since in translation from Greek phalania means "night butterfly" and opsis - "similarity".

In nature and special nurseries, there are about 70 species and a huge variety of hybrid varieties of Phalaenopsis orchids.

How to determine the type of flower?

Under the generic name, you can find plants that are completely different from each other: this name can be worn as a thin tall stem with a pair of elegant flowers on top, as well as a lush garland studded with velvety “night butterflies”. The following features will help to distinguish species and varieties:

Phalaenopsis are divided into two types by height: ordinary, whose height is a meter, and miniature, whose dimensions do not exceed 30 cm.
The color of the flowers and even the color of the leaves varies from species to species, hybrid varieties allow you to achieve incredible shades inherent in a particular species.
The number of flowers on one peduncle.
Some varieties exude pleasant, delicate aromas more intensely than others.
The flower shape is one of the most revealing elements. The flowers have a different number of petals, and their location on the top of the peduncle is also different.

coloring flowers

To determine the name of a varietal orchid of the genus Phalaenopsis by the appearance of a living flower or from a photo, it is worth focusing on the color of the flowers. Shades vary in a very wide range:

Single color(white, red, yellow, purple, lilac, pink, lilac).
Multicolor(flowers striped, speckled, veined, bicolor petals).

A beautiful combination is the contrast between the shades of all the petals and the lips of the flower.

Varieties with photo

Below we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the description of all the most common varieties of phalaenopsis orchids, their names and photos:

Amabilis

Also known as "pleasant", "charming" (Amabilis).

Tall view with peduncles up to 1 meter, which can be branched. It is impossible to remove the peduncle, only in case of damage and death.
On each peduncle there are 20-30 flowers exuding pleasant aroma. The shade of the petals is snow-white or very light.
In its natural environment, amabilis lives in the tropics.
For growing at home, you should pay attention to the fact that amabilis will need a high level of humidity - about 80%.

Schindler

Another tropical type of orchid. Differs in rigid oblong leaves.
Peduncles can reach a height of 1.5 m.
Such giants can hold up to 200 flowers.
The color of the petals is light pink.
Blooms from January to May.
It is necessary to strictly observe the temperature regime.

Stuart (Stuartiana)

A plant with a branching peduncle is characterized by lush and reusable flowering.
The main flower is white with red dots, the lip is light yellow with the same dots, but darker.
For optimal development, high humidity, high light levels and the correct temperature are maintained.

Sandera (Sanderiana)

A very rare exotic species and, as a result, quite expensive.
The peculiarity is that Sandera blooms with light pink large flowers all year round.
Several dark green, slightly pointed leaves (usually no more than 6) fit on a short stem.
High humidity is required - 75-80%.
The length of the peduncle can reach 80 cm and hold up to 50 flowers.
There is practically no aroma in this species.

Equine (Equestris)

A miniature species most common in Taiwan and the Philippines.
The peculiarity of the horse phalaenopsis is that while it blooms, the old leaves fade and die off, and new ones constantly appear.
Small flowers 2-3 cm in diameter have a variety of colors: from pale pink to bright lilac.
The peduncle is purple in color and reaches a length of 30 cm.

Mix (Mix)

An easy-to-care flower that produces flowers several times a year.
Ideal for home keeping.
It should be arranged to ventilate the room, temporarily removing the plant from the draft.
The diameter of the flower is 2-5 cm, the color varies from light pink to bright purple.

Philadelphia

To obtain the species, scientists combined Schiller's and Stewart's phalaenopsis.
The flowers are not large, painted in pink-lilac tones with a yellowish center.
The birthplace of the flower is the Philippines.
Care is needed the same as for those types of orchids that were crossed to get Philadelphia.

Sakura

It is distinguished by the most delicate color of the leaves - a white border and a colored middle of calm pink and lilac tones.
The edges of the petals have a corrugated shape.
The variety is very hardy, the stem is short and thickened.
The plant produces curved flower stalks a couple of times a year.

Luddemana (Lueddemanniana)

The leaves are light green, oval oblong, 25 cm long and 12 cm wide.
The peak of the flowering period, when the plant needs abundant watering, is December-March.
The color of the flowers is exotic: transverse randomly arranged purple stripes on a different background: from yellow to purple.

Giant (Gigantea)

Leathery leaves fully justify the name and can reach 1 m in length and 40 cm in width.
The peduncle grows up to 40 cm, a hanging or curved shape is characteristic.
The color is distinguished by yellow and cream shades with all kinds of spots, streaks and strokes of purple and brown tones.
A feature of the species is the citrus aroma of flowers.
An adult specimen holds up to a hundred flowers.
The first flowering can be expected for a very long time: from 4 years or more.

Pink

Miniature variety with a height of 20-30 cm, flowers in diameter no more than 3 cm.
Growth area: banks of rivers in the Philippines.
The bright pink core is framed by light pink petals.
Requires advanced level humidity and appropriate temperature conditions.

Parisha (Parishi)

One of the small varieties with a very interesting structure of the flower part. Light petals contrast with a wide dark lip of brown or burgundy.
Flowers no more than 2 cm in circumference.

hybrid

Crossing phalaenopsis is not one of the most labor-intensive processes in botany, therefore, industrial cultivation reaches new heights in the cultivation of this genus of orchids. Hybrids are divided into several categories, depending on the size of the flower and the type of flowering.

Miniature (Phal. Mini Mark "Maria Teresa")

A bright representative is phalaenopsis mini. They are very convenient to keep at home or in the office, they do not take up much space.
Fragile graceful flowers are painted in different shades, from light pink to rich tones.

Taiwanese (Amboinensis, Venosa, Violacea)

Unlike miniature, restrained flowers, orchids of this group are strewn with large flowers of exotic colors.
A distinctive feature is unusual colors, a sharp contrast between the petals and the lip.
The unpretentiousness of plants was also laid down by botanists in this section of hybrids.

Novelty Group

This group includes: Prefection In "Chen", l-Hsin Spot Eagle "Montclair", Nobby's Pacific Sunset "Red Pearl", Brother Pirate King "Sapphire Dragon", Misty Pride "CR".

The uniqueness of the group is that, having finished flowering, the plant goes into a dormant phase. Then the peduncle comes to life, and by the new flowering period, new buds appear from its top.
The orchid gives from two or more peduncles at once.
Another distinctive feature of Novelty hybrids are specks, strokes, veins and other patterns on the petals.

The Phalaenopsis genus does not need special care rules, a specific watering regimen or placement. The basic principles of keeping an orchid will be clear even to a novice grower:

The air temperature should be 18-25 C, dropping by 3-4 C at night.
The orchid loves the light, but in the summer months it is necessary to protect it from sunburn. Also, the wrong concentration of lighting can affect the size of the leaves and the number of buds.
The humidity level is preferably moderate - 45-60%. Dry or too humid air will adversely affect orchid flowering. Spraying as an additional source of moisture will not work, it is fraught with the appearance of rot on the leaves and roots. For these purposes, it is better to substitute a tray with wet pebbles under the pot.
Drafts must be completely excluded.
The regularity of watering depends on the season: in summer it will not be superfluous to irrigate the plant 1-2 times a week, in winter watering should be reduced.

The most important rule when caring for phalaenopsis is not to overdo it. If there are doubts whether it is worth giving another portion of top dressing or watering once again, you should refrain.

Conclusion

Phalaenopsis orchid is a genus that includes very beautiful, exotic plants of various colors and sizes. A wide variety of flower shades gives scope for choosing phalaenopsis as a pleasant and unpretentious home flower. Some types of orchids differ in the principles of care, which must be taken into account when making a purchase.

Orchids have always attracted attention and excited the imagination of people. There were legends about these plants, they were credited with magical and medicinal properties, they were inherited. The attraction of orchids can only be compared with the attraction of gold, and "orchid fever" appeared before gold. Hundreds of orchid hunters went to the tropics to find and bring back exotic beauties.

Now the "disease" has taken on other forms, and plants have become available to almost anyone. Butterfly orchids (phalaenopsis) can be seen in almost every flower shop, they are given as a gift or simply bought for yourself. Everyone can become the owner of an orchid!

Phalaenopsis (butterfly orchid)

It doesn’t matter how the orchid entered the house - bought out of pity at a markdown, received as a gift, or you just couldn’t pass by unusual flower in the store, but the first delight passes, and after it there are a lot of questions about care. The first misconception immediately arises: the orchid is a capricious beauty that needs to create greenhouse conditions. But upon closer inspection, it turns out that an orchid in a room culture is much easier to maintain than some traditional plants.

Questions worth asking

Before you start torturing a plant with “correct” (from your point of view) care, you need to find out its needs. Fortunately, the abundance of information on care and maintenance will help to avoid basic mistakes and the subsequent "resuscitation" of the plant. To do this, leave the orchid alone for a couple of days, ask yourself 3 simple questions and try to find answers to them.

Question 1. What is the name of an orchid?

The name of an orchid is one of the most important answers a beginner has to find. Orchids are the most numerous family, whose representatives are found on all continents and in almost all climatic zones, with the exception of Antarctica. Naturally, the conditions various kinds differ considerably.

With a tag, it is very easy to establish the species of a plant. If the tag is missing, you should use the numerous catalogs, reference books, illustrated atlases and Internet resources that will surely help you find the answer to the first question, because most stores do not shine with species diversity. Most often in retail you can buy phalaenopsis, dendrobium, lady's slipper (paphiopedilium), cymbidium, miltonia, and cumbria.

Phalaenopsis, photo by Irina Zolotykh

Question 2. Where does it grow and how does it grow?

Don't rush to get started action, even if you found out the name of your orchid, especially if you got a species plant, which also often happens. Try to find information about the habitats of the species: climate (temperate, subtropical, tropical), rainfall, seasonal features (presence or absence of a dormant period). You should also find out how the orchid grows - epiphytic or on the ground. This determines the optimal method of landing and right choice substrate.

Orchids growing epiphytically

ground orchids

Question 3. How is an orchid arranged?

Carefully inspect the plant, find out the type of growth (monopodial or sympodial). Monopodial orchids have one growing point, while sympodial ones form new growths from the base each time. Pay attention to what healthy leaves, pseudobulbs (if any), or roots should look like.

monopodial type of growth

Sympodial type of growth

If you managed to find answers to the questions posed, then you will definitely be able to not only save and successfully grow the plant, but also make it bloom.

What does the orchid say

In the selection of optimal conditions for growing orchids, not only literature and numerous sources of information can help. Do not forget that each type of orchid for a long time adapted to certain conditions of existence, which was reflected in the structure and appearance of all organs of the plant. Therefore, the orchid itself, upon close examination, can tell a lot about its needs.

Lighting

O required level lighting can be judged by the color, structure and shape of the leaves.

Dense, leathery, narrow leaves can withstand intense light (even direct sunlight) more easily, while wide, delicate leaves may experience sunburn. In some species forced to withstand direct sunlight, the leaves may acquire a cylindrical shape. In addition, the leaves of orchids that need intense light to bloom often develop a "tan" in the form of reddish spots.

Narrow cylindrical leaves of Vanda teres

Broad leaves form orchids forced to capture a few rays of the sun, which means that in a room culture such a plant must be shaded.

Broad leaves Phalaenopsis bellina

Plants with velvety leaves of dark, light green color with golden, silver or bronze veins most often live on the ground under the canopy of the forest, which means that they do not tolerate direct sunlight at all.

Precious leaf orchids, photo by Irina Zolotykh

Humidity and watering

The structure of the leaves, the presence or absence of pseudobulbs makes it possible to judge the humidity in the places of growth.

Tropical orchids growing at constant high humidity are characterized by soft folded leaves that may not fall off for several years, and pseudobulbs are often absent. Such orchids need regular watering throughout the year and maintaining high humidity.

soft miltonia leaves

Fleshy, leathery, or annually falling leaves are characteristic of orchids growing in areas with a pronounced alternation of dry and wet seasons. The need to survive the dry season also leads to the formation of pseudobulbs various shapes whose main function is to store moisture. In room culture, such orchids should dry out between waterings, and some species need to provide a dormant period with a decrease in temperature and a decrease (or complete cessation) of watering. The duration of the dormant period depends on the cultivated species and can last from several weeks to several months.

Fleshy dendrobium pseudobulbs

Fleshy leaves of Leptotes unicolor, photo by Irina Zolotykh

To draw conclusions about the need for soil moisture, it is necessary to carefully examine the roots.

In epiphytic orchids, the roots of which are adapted to capture moisture from the air and are well blown by the wind, thick roots are formed covered with velamen (moisture-retaining cells). They are silvery when dry and green when wet. These plants need to dry out between waterings.

Root covered with velamen

Vanda with loose roots

Thin delicate roots form in orchids that grow, for example, on tree trunks on moss cushions. Such roots constantly receive moisture, do not dry out, but do not become waterlogged. They need to provide these conditions at home, constantly maintaining the humidity of the substrate.

Thin orchid roots braiding the bark of a tree

There are also terrestrial orchids, such as most lady's slippers. These plants are characterized by brownish or whitish roots covered with long root hairs. Such plants also prefer a constantly moist substrate, but at the same time the roots must receive a sufficient amount of air and not be waterlogged.

ground orchid roots

If you carefully study your plant, you can determine the necessary conditions, at least until you look for recommendations on the intricacies of care. However, you should not be limited only to an external examination, because each type of orchid has its own, so it is always necessary to take into account individual characteristics to achieve lush and regular flowering.

Irina Zolotykh

If you want to give someone a particularly nice gift, instead of a traditional bouquet, purchase a pot with a blooming Phalaenopsis orchid in a flower shop. This wonderful orchid symbolizes grace, sophistication and love. We are sure that with its beauty and refinement of aroma it will be the best gift and decoration of the festive interior. In this article, we will introduce you to the natural species of the Phalaenopsis orchid and its most popular hybrid varieties.

Under the name Phalaenopsis, the most common and popular varieties of orchids adapted for home cultivation have united. They are unpretentious, feel great in modern apartments, coquettishly looking out at passers-by from the windows of residential buildings.

Phalaenopsis (lat. Phalaenopsis) is a monopodial (stemless, slowly growing in height), orchid from the Orchidaceae family. Belongs to the genus of herbaceous epiphytic plants. Includes over 70 varieties. In the wild, they grow in the tropical forests of Australia and Indonesia, and are found in the mountains and humid plains of Southeast Asia.

It is believed that the first Phalaenopsis orchid was found in the Moluccas by the German traveler and naturalist Rumph. Some time later, in 1752, in the same place, on a small island near the island of Ternate in Eastern Indonesia, the Swedish pastor Osbek discovered unknown flowers of extraordinary beauty. He picked a flower and sent it to Carl Linnaeus. A well-known physician and naturalist at that time, Linnaeus, described the specimen found in his work “Classification of the Flora and Animal World” under the title “Adorable Epidendrum”. Translated from ancient Greek, Epidendrum means "living in trees."

The story continues after almost seven decades. In 1825, the director of the Leiden Botanical Garden, Karl Blume, discovered another beautiful flower on one of the coasts of an island in the Malay Archipelago. Examining the local tropical vegetation at dusk through field glasses, he drew attention to a flock of light large butterflies sitting on tree branches. As he got closer, he realized he was wrong. These were not butterflies, but flowers of an unknown orchid. This is how this flower got its name.

Phalaenopsis, translated from Greek, consists of two words: Phalania (“night moth”) and Opsis (“similarity”). Today, both natural species and numerous hybrid varieties of Phalaenopsis are combined under this name. There are also other names among the people. In India, phalaenopsis is called the Moonflower, in Europe - the Butterfly Orchid, in our country it is often just Orchid.

plant description

In nature, Phalaenopsis grows as epiphytic herbaceous bushes with large fleshy leaves at the base, turning into thick strong aerial rhizomes, which are covered with a waxy layer and contain chlorophyll. When the roots are saturated with moisture, they turn green.

It is the roots that provide Phalaenopsis with moisture and necessary for normal growth nutrients. The leaves of the plant are very dense and leathery. They have an oblong-oval shape and are arranged oppositely in rosettes. Usually, twice a year, in spring and autumn, from one to four peduncles appear from the axils of the leaves. Depending on the type of this orchid, flower stalks are long or short, straight, curved, branching or hanging. Flowers on them are formed from 5 to 60 pieces or more. The size of the flower for each variety is also different, from 2 to 15 cm in diameter. In shape, the flower most often resembles a moth or butterfly, but there are star-shaped or almost round flowers. The natural color of Phalaenopsis orchid petals is white.

Breeders from ancient times, crossing different types and varieties of orchids received new hybrids that differed in their appearance, petal colors and flowering duration. The most valuable were considered plants with white or pure pink large flowers on tall strong peduncles. At the same time, the standard image of Phalaenopsis arose with traditional porcelain-white, pale pink or light purple flowers of medium size. Over time, varieties with larger, up to 15 cm in diameter, flowers were bred. But the natural grace inherent in this orchid has been somewhat lost.

As a result of further crosses, breeders received varieties with the most unthinkable shades of petals: raspberry, peach, golden, yellow-green. In addition to them, specimens with spotted and striped petals appeared. In the 70s of the last century, French breeders received the new kind the color of the petals of this orchid, which was called "French speck". In hybrids of this type, the petals are painted in light tones of white or pink and dotted with many small spots of a darker tone. In some modern varieties of Phalaenopsis, the pattern on the flower petals resembles the pattern on the wings of dragonflies and butterflies.

Flowers differ in the size of the leaves, and in the length of the peduncle. Many flower growers have become more willing to grow more compact, miniature specimens of this orchid, which has prompted breeders to work in this direction. Charming mini and micro Phalaenopsis appeared with a large number of flowers of various colors, as well as multiflora hybrids.

Read about caring for Phalaenopsis, and below we will introduce you to the most popular and unusually beautiful Phalaenopsis hybrid varieties, and you can choose a flower for yourself to your liking.

Types and varieties of Phalaenopsis

Pleasant or Amabilis (Amabilis)

Phalaenopsis Pleasant or Amabilis (Phalaenopsis Amabilis)

Phalaenopsis Amabilis has four to eight fleshy oblong dark green leaves 35 to 50 cm long and up to 12 cm wide. The vaginal leaves are arranged in two rows. Inflorescences are formed on flexible, slightly curved peduncles of decent length (up to one and a half meters). If the peduncle is cut just below the first flower, then a replacement peduncle will form. Its flowers are white, large, up to 10 cm in diameter. This orchid is the progenitor of numerous hybrid varieties, as it is considered the most suitable species for crossing. The flower lip can have various shades of snow-white, pink or yellowish. Up to 20 flowers are formed on the peduncle at the same time, but they open alternately. The aroma of flowers is pleasant, subtle. Flowering lasts up to four months, from October to March, when flowering peaks.

Schiller (Schilleriana)

Schiller's Phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis Shilleriana)

In Schiller's phalaenopsis, the underside of the leaves has a reddish-brown tint, and the upper surface is painted with alternating dark green and silver-gray spots that merge into irregular transverse stripes. In the Philippines, the homeland of this flower, it is called "Tiger". The roots of this variety are not roundish, as in other varieties of Phalaenopsis, but flat, silvery-green in color. The peduncle has a red-brown color and many branches. The flowers are slightly smaller, up to 7 cm in diameter, but they are much larger on tall, up to one and a half meters in length, peduncles.

During flowering, depending on the age of the flower, up to 200 or more lilac or pale pink flowers up to 9 cm in diameter can bloom on it. Flowering is not only plentiful and fragrant, but also long-lasting. Moreover, with a comfortable content, this orchid is able to bloom from May to February, almost continuously. Flowering peaks during the winter months. Over time, under conditions high temperature and humidity, instead of flowers, the so-called babies appear en masse at the flower. The flower takes on a very spectacular cascading look. Its decorative value among flower growers is very high. Likes diffused light.

Stuart (Stuartiana)

Stuart Phalaenopsis (Phalaenopsis Stuartiana)

This orchid variety is named after breeder Stuart. A distinctive feature is the variegation of its leaves and the color of the roots - they are silvery in color. The branched peduncle reaches 80 cm in length, curved in different directions and covered with numerous buds, up to 60 pieces at a time. Flowers in diameter do not exceed 7 cm. Petals are white with reddish spots at the base. In the center of the flower is an amber lip, smoothly turning from golden to purple. Flowering from January to March. After flowering, he likes to rest, not for long.

Sandera (Sanderiana)

The variety is named after the botanist G. Sander. It is considered the rarest, most beautiful and expensive type of Phalaenopsis. It has high, up to 80 cm, drooping peduncles with many, up to 50 pcs., Flowers up to 8 cm in diameter. Petals can be of different colors. Its leaves are also beautiful. There are up to 6 of them on a plant. They are hard, dark green, with small light specks. The peak of flowering occurs in spring and summer. With a comfortable content (T-ra during the day 29-34 gr., at night 21-23 gr., humidity 75-80%) it can bloom all year round.

Giant (Gigantea)

Phalaenopsis Giant (Phalaenopsis Gigantea)

Phalaenopsis Giant is distinguished by its impressive size of leaf plates. Their length reaches a meter. The length of the peduncle is up to 40 cm. About 30 medium-sized flowers are formed on it, up to 7 cm in diameter. The flowers exude a sweet citrus scent. The color of the petals is different: from milky cream to yellow-green with dark brown strokes and specks. This orchid variety is very malleable, and breeders often use it to cross and develop new hybrids.

Deer-horned (Cornu-Cervi)

Phalaenopsis Olenerogy (Phalaenopsis Cornu-Cervi)

Phalaenopsis Olenerogy got its name from appearance perennial peduncle, resembling deer antlers in structure. Its tip is flattened, and comb-shaped outgrowths form in the places where flower buds form. The leaves are light green, fleshy, obtuse. There are up to 6 of them. They are arranged in sequence. Their length is up to 20 cm, width - about 5 cm. The length of the peduncle is different - from 10 to 40 cm. The older the orchid, the longer the peduncle. Depending on this, the number of flowers is also different, but not more than 15 pieces at a time. The flowers are small, about 5 cm in diameter, golden red with brown spots. Blooms at any time of the year.

Hieroglyphic (Hieroglyphica)

Phalaenopsis Hieroglyphic (Phalaenopsis Hieroglyphica)

Orchid Phalaenopsis Hieroglyphica has leaves and peduncles of the same green color and size - about 30 cm. The leaves are green, shiny, 30 cm long and 9 cm wide. There are from two to eight of them on a plant. The peduncle is 30 cm tall, sometimes branches. On each branch, from three to 6 flowers are formed. Healthy flower stalks are able to bloom again. Flowers, 3 - 4 on each peduncle, open almost simultaneously, bloom for about a month. The white waxy petals have numerous yellow-lemon dots or hieroglyphic strokes. The flowers have a pleasant aroma.

Ambonian (Amboinensis)

Phalaenopsis Ambonsky (Phalaenopsis amboinensis)

Phalaenopsis Ambo has 3 to 5 elliptical or oblong leaves up to 25 cm long. Peduncle curved, up to 25 cm in length. Able to produce a new peduncle annually, old peduncles lengthen every year, sometimes branching. Each peduncle has several flowers, but they bloom one at a time, maximum two at a time. Since the flower stalks remain on the bush for several years, more and more flowers bloom on the plant every year. Flowering takes place constantly, its peak is in the summer months. The color of the petals is variegated: on a cream, lemon-yellow or orange-yellow background, transverse stripes of a reddish-brick color are drawn.

Pink

Phalaenopsis Pink (Phalaenopsis Rosea)

This is a miniature type of orchid. It has small, up to 3 cm in diameter, white or pink flowers. The peduncle of Phalaenopsis Pink reaches a maximum of 30 cm in height. Flowers form about 15 pieces. Dark green leaves have a reddish tinge from the inside. They are about 15 cm long.

Parisha (Parishi)

Phalaenopsis Parishii (Phalaenopsis Parishii)

This lovely milky white Phalaenops orchid is a miniature variety. Its stem is short and always covered with leaves. The root system is well developed. With a comfortable content, it produces several peduncles at once, no higher than 15 cm in height. Dark green leaves are slightly longer - up to 18 cm. Up to ten milky-white flowers are simultaneously formed on the peduncle. Their aroma is pleasant, has a fruity-candy smell. The structure of the flower is interesting in that it consists of a very wide lip, the middle part of which is colored purple or lilac. The flowers of this variety are the smallest, about 2 cm, but fragrant and long-lived.

Equine (Equestris)

Phalaenopsis Horse (Phalaenopsis Equestris)

Phalaenopsis Horse refers to miniature species. It has a very short stem and succulent, paired leaves dark green above and reddish inside. The length of the sheet does not exceed 15 cm in length and 7 - 8 cm in width. With a comfortable content, it can bloom almost all year round. The peak of flowering falls in spring and autumn. A gracefully curved peduncle of dark purple color is no higher than 30 cm. From 10 to 15 flowers are formed on it. As it grows, new buds alternately appear at its tip. Old flowers gradually fall off. Flowers are pale pink or purple and are two to three centimeters in diameter. Flowering continues for several months. The old peduncle should be cut off only if it begins to dry out on its own.

Luddemana (Lueddemanniana)

Phalaenopsis Luddemann (Phalaenopsis Lueddemanniana)

The variety is named after the French breeder, orchid lover F. Ludemann. Refers to miniature orchid species. Light green or lettuce leaves of an elliptical shape are 10 to 20 cm long and 12 cm wide. The peduncle of the same length or slightly higher forms from 5 to 7 buds. Corollas are fragrant, with a dense texture. The flowers bloom alternately and have a diameter of 3 to 7 cm. The petals are small, dense, with a waxy appearance. Moreover, they are smaller than sepals. Their coloration is wonderful: intermittent purple, violet-pink or chestnut stripes go on a white background, and a three-stripe small lip has a bright amethyst center. Blooms in spring and early summer. Adult specimens bloom all year round. The aroma of flowers is pleasant. When grown indoors, it requires up to 80% humidity and high temperature.

Mini Mark “Maria Teresa” (Mini Mark “Maria Teresa”)

Phalaenopsis Mini Mark “Maria Teresa” (Phalaenopsis Mini Mark “Maria Teresa”)

This variety is considered the masterpiece of mini Phalaenopsis. Neat rosette consists of green leaves, 10-15 cm long. The flowers are small, up to 4 cm in diameter, white, light yellow, orange or pink speckled with an orange-brown lip. Flowering lasts up to three months.

Amsterdam Jordan

Phalaenopsis Amsterdam Jordan (Phalaenopsis Amsterdam Jordan)

A rare variety with bright pink, darkly speckled flower petals. The lip is painted cherry. The basal rosette is formed from two-row growing fleshy leaves of a deep green color. The variety was bred in the last century and is still popular.

Taiwanese hybrids

Taiwan has become a modern breeding and industrial center for numerous hybrid varieties. It was here that the extraordinary beauty of the "harlequin" variety was bred with bright spotted patterns on the petals in the form of ripples from dashes or dots, merging blots, tiger or leopard color. Their flowers are similar to the works of art of oriental calligraphers.

Phalaenopsis Harlequin (Phalaenopsis Arlekin)

Also, Taiwanese breeders can boast of the so-called hybrid varieties of Novelty-phalaenopsis. They are distinguished by a special compact rosette, growing numerous peduncles, raised above the leaves. The flowers have the correct star shape, complex coloration with all kinds of patterns and patterns. The flower petals have a glossy lacquer texture. Novelty Phalaenopsis include the following hybrids: Phalaenopsis Misty Pride "CR", Phalaenopsis l-Hsin Spot Eagle "Montclair", Phalaenopsis Prefection In "Chen", Phalaenopsis Nobby's Pacific Sunset "Red Pearl", Phalaenopsis Brother Pirate King "Sapphire Dragon".

One of the varieties of Novelka-Phalaenopsis

Phalaenopsis variegated

A huge number of varieties and species of orchids suggests the same variety in the shape, size and color of Phalaenopsis leaf plates. As a rule, in standard hybrids, the leaves are rather large, green, matte. But more and more often there are not only silver, light green and dark purple, shiny like silk, or waxy-matte leaves, but also variegated.

Moreover, sometimes it is a natural color, and in other cases, variegated leaves appear as a result of a mutation, when chlorophyll is absent in some parts of the leaf plate. For example, on the green leaves of Phalaenopsis, a wide yellow stripe runs through the center, or a light border runs along the edge of its leaves. Such variegated leaves are found in some clones of Phalaenopsis amabilis, Phalaenopsis aphrodite, as well as Phalaenopsis Matou Freed "M", miniature Doritaenopsis Sogo Yenlin "Variegated Leaves", Phalaenopsis Sogo Vivien "Variegated".

One of the variegated Phalaenopsis - Phalaenopsis Philippinensis

True variegated Phalaenopsis hybrids:

Phalaenopsis philippinensis (Phalaenopsis Philippinense), Phalaenopsis schilleriana (Phalaenopsis Schilleriana). They pass on the mottled leaf pattern to their primary hybrids, which adds to their attractiveness. Variegated leaves are found in two small natural species Phalaenopsis lindenii (Phalaenopsis lindeni) and Phalaenopsis celebensis (Phalaenopsis celebensis). If you decide to collect Phalaenopsis with variegated leaves, you can get a great picturesque collection.

Phalaenopsis with a special flavor

Palaenopsis Bellina

The aroma of a flower is sometimes decisive in choosing a Phalaenopsis orchid variety. It complements and reveals the overall picture of any flowering plant. The owners of such natural species of Phalaenopsis as Phalaenopsis amabilis, Palaenopsis bellina, Phalaenopsis mariae, Phalaenopsis venosa enjoy fragrant flowering. It is these plants that nature endowed with a wonderful aroma. Only thanks to them, breeders have the opportunity to obtain hybrids with fragrant flowers of unforgettable beauty.

intergeneric hybrids

It will be right if we tell in this article about intergeneric hybrids between Phalaenopsis and other related genera of orchids, such as Doritis (Doritis), Renanthera (Renanthera), Ascocentrum (Askocentrum), Rhynchostylis (Rhynchostylis), Paraphalaenopsis (Paraphalaenopsis), Neqfinetia (Neofinetia) ). Each intergeneric hybrid has its own name. Here are some of them: Doritaenopsis l-Hsin "Spot Eagle", Doritaenopsis Taiwan "Red Cat", Doritaenopsis Purple Gem, Doritaenopsis Tzu Chiang Sapphire.

Doritaenopsis Liu's Sakura 'KF#2'

So, until recent changes in the systematics of orchids, Phalaenopsis pulcherrima was called Doritis pulcherrima, and all hybrids between it and representatives of the genus Phalaenopsis were given the name Doritaenopsis (Doritenopsis). Thus, many hybrid phalaenopsis known to domestic orchid lovers are - Doritenopsis. "Doritaenopsis Liu's Sakura 'KF#2'" caused a particular stir. It is a compact plant with dark dense leaves and a slight purple hue. Its petals of a delicate mother-of-pearl pink hue are very interesting shape, because of which the inflorescence turns out to be surprisingly refined.

blue hybrids

Such specimens appeared in culture recently, after the discovery in nature of the blue forms of Phalaenopsis violacea coerulea, Phalaenopsis equestris cyanochilus and Doritis pulcherrima coerulea. Blue coloring for orchids is not characteristic. Getting a Phalaenopsis orchid with pale blue flowers has always been a dream of breeders. When they found natural blue Phalaenopsis, with small flowers, there was no limit to joy.

Doritaenopsis Siam Treasure "Blue" is obtained by crossing Phalaenopsis Pleasant and Doritis the most beautiful

Selection work has not greatly improved the appearance of blue Phalaenopsis: their peduncles form almost white flowers with a slight gray-blue tint or medium-sized purplish or pink-blue flowers. The following varieties of blue hybrids became available to domestic collectors: Doritaenopsis Siam Treasure "Blue", Doritaenopsis Kenneth Schubert "Blue Angel", Doritaenopsis Purple Martin "KS", Doritaenopsis Peter "Blue Sky".

Phalaenopsis Blue

Please note that in nature there are no orchids with this color of petals. As a result of crossing, it was possible to obtain varieties with blue shades of petals (see above). If you are offered to buy a Phalaenopsis orchid with bright blue flowers, then most likely this is not the work of breeders, but sellers. An injection of blue paint was made either into the peduncle or at the point of growth. In the first case, at home, after flowering, by long treatment, you may be able to save the flower, but you still won’t get blue flowers from it. But in the second case, Phalaenopsis simply will not live to see the next flowering.

Phalaenopsis pelorica

Sometimes, as a result of a plant mutation, not only leaves, but also flowers suffer. They do not have the correct structure of the corolla, resulting in the formation of abnormal, almost actinomorphic "butterflies". For example, in some flowers, the petals or sepals have the shape and color of the lips. In others, the lip looks like petals. Such specimens are called pelorics. They look very unusual. In nature, Phalaenopsis pelorics appear as a result of exposure to certain environmental factors. A similar phenomenon is characteristic of varieties such as Phalaenopsis Stuartiana, Phalaenopsis pulcherrima or Phalaenopsis Schillehana.

In floriculture in general, unusual deviations from the form are of great interest. So pelorics among Phalaenopsis are popular. The following hybrids can serve as an example: Phalaenopsis Bubble Gum "Shwartz", Phalaenopsis Terradyne "Muligan", Phalaenopsis World Class "Big Foot".

Phalaenopsis Bubble Gum "Shwartz"

We draw your attention to the fact that Phalaenopsis pelorics obtained by cloning go on sale. And this means that at the next flowering, in such plants, peloria can appear in a completely different form. Many lovers of not only orchids, but also other exotics began to search and collect such "miracles".

In addition to the varieties of Phalaenopsis described above, the following hybrids are popular in Russia:

Phalaenopsis Legato (Phalaenopsis Legato) has flowers painted in amazing colors of gold, pink, lilac shades with mother-of-pearl overflow

Phalaenopsis Cleopatra (Phalaenopsis Cleopatra) blooms for a long time with mother-of-pearl flowers with lilac and pink specks

Phalaenopsis Singolo (Phalaenopsis Singolo) has one flower on the peduncle - this is its uniqueness

Phalaenopsis Sakura (Phalaenopsis Sakura) - one of the most airy and delicate varieties of feminine orchids with white flowers, iridescent lilac shades

Conclusion

We have tried to introduce you to as many natural species of the Phalaenopsis orchid as possible and to the most popular hybrid varieties of this flower in Russia and around the world. The choice is yours. We assure you that all these wonderful flowers are very unpretentious in home maintenance and will become the main decoration of your interior for many years.

One of the most common mistakes- this is the purchase of "ORCHID", without a specific indication of its name. What her name is is unknown, and how to grow it is also completely incomprehensible.
Therefore, before purchasing an orchid, find out its exact name. Then find the necessary information on care on the net, take the word of the sellers (they may be well versed in the care of various indoor plants, but having no experience in growing orchids, they are unlikely to advise the correct information) here! If you cannot provide the right conditions, then do not purchase the plant.
If you decide to buy an orchid in a store, then most often, these are all Dutch hybrids, flowering Phalaenopsis, hybrid Dendrobiums, Oncidium hybrids, hybrid Paphiopedilums and so on are most often sold.
The next mistake is that after buying from a store or from hands, an orchid is left in the same substrate in which it was sold. Since there is no experience yet, often this is the first orchid, then errors occur in an unknown substrate when watering.
It is necessary to transplant into your substrate, for this it is better to take pieces of bark a little larger than recommended. Yes, large bark will dry out faster, and accordingly it will need to be watered more often, but it is better to let the roots and bark dry out faster than there will be moisture stagnation in the pot, which can lead to decay.
Therefore, for beginners, it is better to plant an orchid in large pieces of bark (especially phalaenopsis), and in a transparent pot. A transparent pot allows you to see when the bark and roots have dried out, only after that you can start watering.
Sometimes, after changing the substrate, part of the roots of the orchid dries out, BUT drying out of the roots is not rotting, if you regularly water and feed, then new roots begin to grow in a month, or even earlier.
For example, Phalaenopsis, planted in a pot with a diameter of 11-12 cm with pieces of pine bark from 1.5 to 2.5 cm, can be watered 3 days after watering. Between waterings in the morning, spray the leaves and superficial roots.
Another mistake of novice orchidists when growing in sphagnum "Since the sphagnum is dry on top, then inside the pot too."
No, the sphagnum inside can hold moisture for a VERY LONG time, and as a result of watering “as the sphagnum dries up”, the roots begin to rot, and the orchid can rot with them. This process may take more than one month, the orchid may even bloom, and when the process becomes visible to you, then often the orchid cannot be saved.
If you bought my first orchid planted in sphagnum, then it is needed be sure to transplant into pine bark(exceptions are only for those who have been growing orchids for more than a year and know how to water in such a substrate).
Deepening of the root neck.
When planting any orchid, the root neck should be open, as this is a weak spot in the orchid. Often novice orchidists cover the root neck with bark, as they are afraid that the bare roots will dry out. You should not be afraid of this, since nothing terrible will happen with open roots, but the root neck may rot.
When planting orchids in a pot, it is allowed to lay the top layer of the substrate with sphagnum, but it must be borne in mind that there are a number of species and hybrids for which such laying is contraindicated, it is better to clarify this point on the net or on the forum! Laying the surface of the substrate is excluded if you have poor ventilation in your apartment.
When landing on a block, a piece of bark is placed under the root collar instead of sphagnum.