What is is about orchids that is so undeniably attractive? Perhaps because their mystical presence has been part of nature since before man and they span all of the continents of the Earth except for Antarctica. Science has shown that the Orchidaceae family of flowering plants may go back as far as 100 million years or more. One orchid species that has been traced back to at least 60 million years, the dried seed pods of the Vanilla Orchid are the source of vanilla for baking and perfume!
How many types of orchids are there? The Orchidaceae family of uniquely beautiful flowers has about 28,000 natural species: this equals the number of bony fishes and is more than twice the number of bird species, and about four times the number of mammal species on Earth. Since the introduction of tropical orchids into cultivation in the 19th century, horticulturists have produced more than 100,000 additional hybrids and cultivars.
Why do the flowers of the orchid last so long? The complex mechanisms that orchids have evolved to achieve cross-pollination, which were once investigated by Charles Darwin himself, are highly specialized therefore the chances of being pollinated are often unlikely, so orchid flowers usually remain in bloom for very long periods. You will find orchids in flower for months at a time, giving endless enjoyment.
What about orchids in Florida? Our state is host to about half of the native orchid species found in the United States! Almost all orchid species will thrive in the climate and conditions of the Sunshine State because we are at a nexus of both temperate and semi-tropical to tropical regions. Our native species of orchids include the fabled Ghost Orchid as well as four species that are so rare, they originate only in Florida.
What are the four main types of orchids? Orchidaceae are broken down into Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis), Dendrobium Orchids, Slipper Orchids (shown above), and Boat Orchids (Cymbidium). All of these orchids can thrive in the right setting in and around your Florida home. Phalaenopsis are the most common variety that you see sold just about everywhere including the local grocery store. Dendrobrium have long narrow leaves and are often found decorating restaurant tables or garnishing elegant plates of food. The rarely sold Lady Slipper orchid is pictured above and comes in many other colors. Cymbidium orchids are large and tall with heavy, elaborate flowers.
How can orchids be incorporated into North Florida landscape design? There are several ways to add orchids to your landscaping. Because some species are air plants, they are often grown on trees as they would be found in nature. Dendrobrium orchids are known to grow well in our soil and bloom once or twice per year. Cymbidium and moth orchids enjoy the conditions of pots on outdoor patios and lanais.
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