Sooner or later, you’ll want to bring an orchid to your garden oasis.
The problem is, WHAT ORCHID?
There are more than 25,000 types of orchids in the wild.
TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND SPECIES.
Some of them are common, typical orchids you’ll find in most terrariums.
Others are among the RAREST of flowers out there, with other-worldly color combinations.
What type will you bring home, then?
We decided to describe the most popular and doable ones (THOSE YOU CAN BRING HOME), so you can have a better idea of how they look, what they need, and whether you should try them.
Keep reading and learn ALL that:
33 Types of Orchids for Your Flower Garden
1. Angraecum Orchids (Angraecum spp.)
Not the most colorful of all orchids, the Angraecum variety is typically found in either white, green, or yellowish tones. The flowers are almost silky or waxy in texture and produce star-shaped petals that are IMPOSSIBLE to dismiss.
To grow an Angraecum, you’ll need temperatures no lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit and no higher than 85 degrees.
It will require consistent watering, misting, moderate light exposure, and regular fertilization. Most Angraecum orchids are easy to grow.
KNOW THIS: This variety blooms in winter and produces a unique fragrance.
2. Ascocenda Orchids (Ascocentrum spp.)
Beautiful in almost every sense of the word, this is one of the most vibrant varieties.
An ideal place to grow them will have temperatures higher than 65 degrees Fahrenheit, consistent misting, and tons of moisture.
The plant only thrives with direct sunlight (though grow lights also work).
There are many colors Ascocendas can boast, most commonly found in orange, purple, and bright red. The petals typically have a round shape (almost like an inverted heart).
INTERESTING FACT: The plant blooms up to three times a year in the right environment.
3. Bletilla Orchids (Bletilla striata spp.)
Few orchids grow well in cold environments. The Bletilla is one of those varieties.
There are many different kinds, but the most common boasts white-to-purple tones and a wrinkled petal in the middle.
You’ll see Bletillas blooming in the spring alongside other flowers.
This one requires full sun exposure nonetheless and prefers little watering (especially in winter).
THE BEST THING: It grows in temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit. SUPER LOW for an orchid.
4. Bulbophyllum Orchid (Bulbophyllum spp.)
When it comes to rarities, the Bulbophyllum varieties are among the RAREST.
Some Bulbophyllum varieties produce hanging flowers that look more like the typical orchid (large, star-shaped petals). But most of them are clusters of flowers, similar to a toucan’s bill.
Its colors can go anywhere from red and purple to yellow, orange, and more (not to say they usually boast spots and blemishes all around).
You’ll need bright light to grow it, but just enough so it doesn’t burn (protected in the summer). It needs watering almost every day and light misting.
CONSIDER THIS: This one is a bit hard to grow, mainly because it grows in temperatures between 65 and 75-degrees Fahrenheit (lower and higher could make it struggle).
5. Brassavola Orchids (Brassavola spp.)
You’ll find Brassavola orchids in a wide array of tropical environments, as it grows well in temperatures from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The flowers are often white with thin yellow petals. But because there are over 20 Brassavola orchids, the colors and shapes may vary.
Most of them require partial shade and consistent watering to thrive (preferably with light misting).
WORTH KNOWING: The flowers produce a unique fragrance in the evening.
6. Brassia Orchids (Brassia spp.)
Also known as the ‘Spider Orchids,’ the Brassia varieties stand out for narrow spikes that resemble spider legs (considering the brown-to-purple flecks in the petals).
It requires consistent temperatures that don’t go over 70 degrees Fahrenheit or lower than 60 degrees.
You’ll need to water only when the soil dries up at the top and mist the petals carefully.
You can keep it under direct sunlight still. It will thrive as long as you don’t overwater it.
DON’T FORGET: Once a Brassia branch blooms, it won’t produce flowers ever again (only new ones will do).
7. Cambria Orchids (Vuylstekeara spp.)
GORGEOUS. There’s no other word to describe it. You’ll find it an inimitable variety given its wild combination of colors, going from white to purple, red, yellow, and a variation of pecks, wrinkles, and shapes.
It’s surprisingly easy to grow as long as it receives everyday watering and misting without sogging it.
Also, it’s one of the most versatile orchids. The Cambria grows in places as hot as 75 degrees Fahrenheit and as excellent as 55 degrees. But keep it away from the sun in the summer (and moderate direct light in other seasons).
AWESOME TIP: In warmer environments, the plant may bloom in winter and continue until late spring.
8. Catasetum Orchid (Catasetum spp.)
The waxy texture of its petals increases the beauty it displays, often with purple flowers that catch the attention at first sight.
There are many Catasetum varieties still, but most of them have round-shaped petals with colored edges, making them slightly different than other types.
It prefers tropical environments with temperatures no lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This also means consistent light exposure or partial shade.
ALSO IMPORTANT: It goes to dormancy in the winter, losing all its leaves (they turn yellow beforehand, so don’t panic).
9. Cattleya Orchids (Cattleya spp.)
Among the easiest to grow, thus also one of the most popular out there. The Cattleya species boasts a distinctive orchid shape with wrinkly petals.
These petals are often pink or light purple with white edges. The center generally achieves a bright yellow color, so it NEVER GOES IGNORED.
You’ll need bright lights with occasional shade, consistent watering, and temperatures no lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
EXCITING FACTOR: The flowers produce a mild yet penetrating fragrance.
10. Coelogyne Orchid (Coelogyne spp.)
Everyone will love the Coelogyne ruffled petals making the star shape that orchids are known for.
As for the colors, you’ll find it primarily wide with yellow or orange lip (big central petal). The combination typically includes dots and splashes of other colors.
This one withstands slightly cool environments of about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. And it prefers fresh ones not more than 70 degrees.
It is a high-humidity plant that needs consistent watering but not much misting.
Most people will find it hard to grow without a greenhouse or grow tent.
GREAT TO KNOW: It produces a sweet aroma, hard to dismiss.
11. Cycnoches Orchids (Cycnoches spp.)
Many people call it the ‘Swan Orchid’ for a reason: its majestic waxy leaves, boasting white flowers (sometimes greenish).
Cycnoches are over 40 species, though, so you’re likely to find many shapes and colors within the genus.
Most of them have rounded petals and a gorgeous middle lip with intense white or green.
Its temperature needs are tropical (60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit), and it prefers partial shade or diffuse light.
As for watering, it needs consistent irrigation and daily misting (with care).
DON’T MISS THIS: To prevent issues with the plant, you shouldn’t water it for a few days after the flowers disappear.
12. Cymbidium Orchids (Cymbidium spp.)
Want nothing less than BEAUTIFUL?
Go for Cymbidium orchids then.
These produce colorful petals, boasting purple-to-read tones with diffused white and yellow. The central lip often features intense brown pecks that set it apart.
You’ll need partial shade to help it grow. Light daily watering and misting are essential. And for temperatures, it prefers subtropical environments with no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
ALSO CONSIDER: The flowers grow in small bunches, creating a uniquely attractive dense display of colors.
13. Dendrobium Orchids (Dendrobium spp.)
The largest orchid genus, Dendrobium, includes over 1,000 different varieties that you could go for.
Regardless, most flowers are small and thin, with a fantastic display of tones. This includes purple, lavender, yellow, and intense red. The petals can be white, light-green, but most of the time, pink.
It is an easy variety to grow, requiring partial shade and consistent misting. Temperatures can go from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and it won’t struggle.
WATCH OUT: A single Dendrobium flower can last over 8 weeks.
14. Encyclia Orchids (Encyclia spp.)
If you like waxy petals, you’ll love the Encyclia genus.
Known as the ‘Cockleshell Orchids,’ these gorgeous bloomers produce thin but fleshy petals, often with intense colors like reddish-brown and light green. Its lips can continually grow white with pink-to-purple flecks.
You’ll need to keep it in warm areas no cooler than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because its watering needs are high, and it often grows with partial shade.
BE AWARE: The name comes from the Greek “enkyklein,” meaning encircle (referring to its enfolded middle lip).
15. Epidendrum Orchids (Epidendrum spp.)
INTENSE COLORS AND UNIQUE SHAPE.
Nothing beats the Epidendrum genus when it comes to beauty and particular features. These include thin petals and small size, often boasting dark purple-colored petals and white lips (with yellow specks).
Most of them grow in subtropical areas, preferably with temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Its watering needs are moderate, requiring careful misting.
DON’T RUSH: If you want to grow an Epidendrum indoors, you will need an artificial grow light, most likely, as it requires full sun exposure.
16. Laelia Orchids (Laelia spp.)
Among the smallest varieties out there, Laelies stand out for their wrinkled petals. These can be white or peach-like, often with purple splashes.
It grows on bright light and requires temperatures no lower than 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you want lasting blooms, don’t water it unless the soil is dry (and mist carefully daily).
CHECK THIS: They only grow in elevated forests of at least 6,500 feet over sea level.
17. Ludisia Orchids (Ludisia discolor)
The plant itself is beautiful, sporting dark-brown leaves that catch anyone’s attention at first glance.
Its flowers are among the smallest orchids, typically with white tones and yellow flecks in some cases.
The Ludisia is unique of its kind, and you’ll find only one variety with such particular features.
It is not hard to grow, as it prefers tropical environments of no less than 65 degrees Fahrenheit with consistent watering.
DON’T FORGET: The plant blooms in spring and winter with flowers that last over 3 weeks.
18. Lycaste Orchids (Lycaste spp.)
Few orchids grow with unicolor petals like the Lycaste. These are surprisingly soft and fleshy petals.
There are various shapes and tones to consider, but most grow with either white, red, lavender, or pink tons, sometimes entirely yellow or orange.
As for growth, it prefers bright environments with temperatures staying between 60 and 75-degrees Fahrenheit.
USEFUL TO KNOW: When winter arrives and the plants’ leaves disappear, it produces spines as a protection mechanism (these spines can be REALLY PRICKLY).
19. Masdevallia Orchids (Masdevalia spp.)
Want something you won’t find anywhere else?
Look no further than the Masdevallia orchids.
These AMAZINGLY GOOD-LOOKING flowers are single-petal with thin legs that sprout to the sides. With vibrant orange, yellow, and reddish colors, plus flecked surfaces, they are astonishing.
It is a tricky genus to grow, as it prefers mountainous regions with decent moisture but not soggy soil. Also, it grows in stable temperatures within 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
VALUABLE FACTS: The orchid often grows in mountainous areas with tons of mist and clouds, so it prefers little light.
20. Maxillaria Orchids (Maxillaria spp.)
Maxillaria orchids are easy to grow and fast-growing. More importantly, they are easily among the most attractive, as each flower has fleshy yet velvety leaves, with colors ranging from dark purple to orange and yellow. Brown and purple spots also abound.
Tropical environments are its bread and butter: temperatures staying between 55- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering should be daily, preferably when the soil is almost dry. And it grows better when it receives partial shade.
BY THE WAY: The blossoms produce vanilla-like scents, almost hypnotizing (when combined with their beauty).
21. Miltonia Orchids (Miltonia spp.)
Like a flower directly from science fiction movies, the Miltonia orchids are all mind-blowingly pretty.
The colors can be from purple to pink, with orange centers and petals boasting uniquely shaped pecks.
These petals can be round-shaped with large lips that grab anyone’s attention.
This species survives in subtropical environments, going from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. And it needs diffused sunlight (it doesn’t like direct exposure).
THE BEST PART: It is a straightforward type to grow, so even beginners can enjoy it indoors or outdoors.
22. Odontoglossum Orchids (Odontoglossum spp.)
Wrinkled leaves and a fantastic color mix, the Odontoglossum genus is hard to dismiss.
The petals in the flowers often grow freckled, boasting colors like purple and white, mixed with brown brushes all across.
It is a challenging species to grow, as it prefers high humidity, but temperatures need to stay lower than 75 degrees, but no higher than 60 degrees.
Watering and misting need to be consistent daily. Yet, you shouldn’t water too much as it could damage the leaves and petals.
MOREOVER: The name comes from the Greek “odonto,” which means teeth, and the word “glossa,” meaning tongue. This combination comes from the unique teeth-and-tongue shape of its lip.
23. Oncidium Orchids (Oncidium spp.)
The color combinations on the Oncidium orchids will vary depending on which one of the 300 species you’re looking at. But most likely, you’ll find yellow and white tones, with orange or brown freckles and marks covering the petals.
This genus stands out for its preference for high humidity, generally in temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
These orchids are easy to grow, even though they often form deformities when environments are not perfect.
WORTH A LOOK: Smelling the flower will give you a sweet cocoa scent, unique of its kind.
24. Paphiopedilum Orchids (Paphiopedilum spp.)
Don’t have much experience growing tough flowers? Give the Paphiopedilum a chance.
It’s an easy-to-grow species, thanks to the tough leaves. When it blooms, you can enjoy flowers with colors all across the pattern: burgundy, brown, white, yellow, pink, orange, and even black.
This matches with the freckles, shades, stripes, and other shapes that form in the petals.
To grow it, ensure tropical environments, keep it watered daily, and mist occasionally (avoid overwatering).
DON’T DISMISS THIS: The center lip of the flower looks like a tiny pouch that adds to its beauty.
25. Phaius Orchids (Phaius spp.)
The largest orchid flowers on the list. With spiky petals, silky texture, and creamy colors, they are difficult to ignore. (Its most common name is Nun’s orchid).
You can find it with colors going from yellow to white, but they’re often burgundy and purple.
It also prefers tropical environments with temperatures that stay within 55- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit. So if you want to keep it healthy, make sure it stays humid and misted.
ALSO CONSIDER: It is a winter-blooming plant, likely to produce flowers before the spring arrives.
26. Phalaenopsis Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.)
A combination of colors that will BLOW YOUR MIND. Also found as ‘Moth Orchids,’ these gorgeous specimens come in various colors and patterns.
A typical Phalaenopsis orchid boasts white petals with purple veins, a burgundy center, and tiny yellow freckles.
You will also find it with purple and orange petals and many other combinations (75 species).
It is not a hard orchid to grow, surprisingly. You only need a subtropical environment (nothing less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit) and a moist place (daily watering and misting).
Try to keep away from direct sunlight to prevent damage.
INTEREST PART: It blooms almost the entire year, going on and off every couple of months.
27. Phragmipedium Orchids (Phragmipedium spp.)
Live in a humid environment? You may find the Phragmipedium orchids ideal.
These THRIVE in moist environments, mainly when the soil stays wet. That means you’ll need to keep the soil humid to keep the plant happy.
As for temperatures, they’re tropical. That includes warm areas of as little as 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
You’ll identify the flower for its pouch-like center lip, making it a one-of-a-kind orchid.
The colors can vary as there are over 20 species in this genus, but most of them feature yellow to orange tones.
IMPORTANT PART: The petals are diffused, sometimes combining up to three colors at once – SO IT’S STUNNING.
28. Pleione Orchids (Pleione spp.)
A small variety of orchid plants, the Pleione are considered a dwarf species.
The flowers, however, are larger than the plant itself, featuring a wide array of tones going from white and light pinks to bright purple.
This species’ petals stand out for a fleshy appearance and a prickly center lip.
It is not the easiest to grow, as it requires fresh environments of no lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit but also no higher than 70 degrees.
Humidity needs are moderate, but it prefers daily watering (but not in winter).
PRACTICAL DETAIL: The flowers often look like sprouting out of nowhere, as the plant’s leaves are often super-tiny.
29. Psychopsis Orchids (Psychopsis spp.)
As soon as you see one of these, you won’t be able to take your eyes off.
Also known as the ‘Butterfly Orchids,’ these STRIKING flowers sport colors going from burgundy with tones of green to dark purple with yellow specks.
It prefers tropical environments with temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. And it often grows better with diffused light or partial shade.
As for watering, keep it moist but don’t overdo it (only mist once a day).
FASCINATING FACT: The flower’s petals are wrinkly and ruffled, making for a fantastic sight considering the unique color combinations.
30. Stanhopea Orchids (Stanhopea spp.)
Looking for an orchid to plant in a hanging basket?
The Stanhopea genus is perfect for that. Their leaves are pleaded, often white with colorful flowers boasting speckles all across the petals.
If you want it to thrive, make sure it grows in bright sunlight but diffused. The watering should be consistent with keeping the soil moist, and misting should be daily.
The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 52 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 60 degrees.
ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO KNOW: The flowers grow downward, which is an excellent alternative for hanging baskets.
31. Vanda Orchids (Vanda spp.)
You’ll never get tired of looking at Vanda orchids.
With over 80 species to consider, most Vandas are incredibly colorful, boasting many colors going from purple to pink, white, and yellow. Most of them show tiny spots across the rounded petals.
These aren’t easy to grow, given their specific soil needs and temperature. Also, many Vandas differ when it comes to light needs and watering.
Having said that, they among the most attractive (if you can handle their difficulty).
DON’T OVERLOOK THIS: The flowers can last over 2 months before degrading.
32. Vanilla Orchids (Vanilla spp.)
The name comes from the Vanilla-like colors flower have white or green creamy tones.
Its blooms have waxy yet elongated petals that are difficult to overlook. Also, every blossom produces a strong aroma.
Sadly, these flowers only last for about a day, but the plant produces them for two months straight.
Vanilla orchids will only grow in high temperatures no lower than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. And with moist soil and daily misting, the plant grows almost anywhere.
THE CHERRY ON TOP: This is the only orchid variety that grows on vines (IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES).
33. Zygopetalum Orchids (Zygopetalum spp.)
Did you say BEAUTIFUL FLOWER?
Nothing matches that description like the Zygopetalum.
Orchids from this variety boast the broadest array of colors, sporting tones going from brown to purple, yellow, green, and much more (not to mention the STUNNING specks and diffused tones).
It prefers diffused lights or partial shade. Temperatures need to stay higher than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. And it can handle mild watering only.
WHAT’S BETTER: Its flowers are intensely fragrant and grow from fall to spring without stopping.
Pick an Orchid for Your Garden NOW!
Your garden is YEARNING for those orchids to start blooming.
Focus on the types of orchids that match your garden’s colors and add up to its beauty.
With so many species to consider, you should have no problem picking.
By the way, remember to check their needs before going all-in (some orchids can be problematic…)