Did you know that there are 25,000 documented species of orchids on the planet.
Each being very unique and beautiful in itself.
There is no wonder these flowers have come to be one of the most popular houseplants.
Today, in this post, we are going to talk about 25 interesting facts you may or may not have known about Orchids.
Let’s begin…
25 Orchid Facts You May Or May Not Have Known
Do orchids need sunlight?
Yes, orchids need sunlight, but too much direct light can do more harm than good. On the other hand, if your plant gets too little light, it won’t be enough to help it produce those beautiful flowers.
The best location for most orchids is to put it behind a curtain or behind the window shades. You could also place the plant on either the east side or the west side of the house.
How many hours of light do orchids need?
For optimal growth, orchids need between 1 or 2 hours of direct sunlight each day. A good indicator of a plant that is getting too much direct sunlight is that the leaves will start to turn brown.
Are orchids edible?
Your first thought when seeing an orchid on your plate might be that these flowers are too beautiful to eat, but the truth is that yes orchids are edible.
One of the most popular orchids that are served with food is the Karma orchid. This flower is purple and white and oftentimes it is used as a garnish to decorate cakes, chocolates, drinks, and even salads.
In some cultures, it is common to use orchids in a stir fry and in Turkey they use these flowers in ice cream.
While they are safe to eat, these flowers can at times irritate the stomach. With that being said, always exercise caution when trying something new for the first time.
So the next time you see a purple orchid on your salad or in your drink, you will know, that it isn’t just there for decoration, but yes you can eat it too.
What do Orchids taste like?
While I personally have never tried one, many people have said they taste like crispy like eating lettuce.
Are orchids expensive?
Yes, while beautiful, these flowers tend to be much more expensive than other plants.
For example, you can buy a blooming Phalaenopsis orchid for around 20 – 25 dollars a plant. Of course, the price is dependant on the type of flower and also how old the plant it.
You can purchase younger plants that aren’t blooming yet for a cheaper price. However, because they are younger, you can expect to wait sometime before they bloom.
Why are orchids expensive?
Orchids are expensive because they often need a lot of special treatment.
For example, it is very difficult to grow an orchid from seed. Once, a seed becomes a small plant it takes a long time for it to start to bloom. All of this takes a lot of time and effort. Thus making them expensive.
In addition to requiring special treatment, there are many species of orchids are very rare and hard to find.
It is for that reason, they cost more than other flowers on the market.
However, don’t let the price discourage you. These are beautiful flowers and will definitely brighten up any garden, house or office.
Are orchids air plants?
Yes, orchids can be considered air plants because many of them are known to grow what are called aerial roots. These are roots that rather than grow in the soil they kind of stick out into the air.
At first glance, you might be alarmed by these tentacles looking things coming out of your plant, but don’t worry.
This is simply part of their root system used to supply the plant with nutrients and water that it absorbs from the air around it.
Can you cut the air roots of an orchid?
Some gardeners don’t like the look of these strange roots sticking out from their beautiful flowers and they might be tempted to just cut them off, but is it safe to do so?
The answer is no, do not cut the air roots of your flowers. As we mentioned earlier these roots are an important way your plants gets nutrients and water. If you were to just cut them off you could harm your plant or worse yet create a way for a virus to attack your plant.
Only cut off air plants when you are convinced that the root is dead.
Are orchids epiphytes?
Yes, there are epiphytic orchids. In fact, most orchids that you find in the wild are considered to be epiphytes. This means that they attached themselves to another plant (typically trees), but they are non-parasitic.
Rather than obtaining water and nutrients from the plant that it is anchored to, epiphytic orchids use their thick spongy roots or pseudobulbs to absorb water.
In addition, many orchids will grow aerial roots to absorb moisture and nutrients from the atmosphere around them.
How big do Orchids get?
Well, that really depends on the species. There are some that produce blossoms the size of a small coin and there are reports of some growing up to 12 feet in diameter and weighing 200 pounds.
Are Orchids toxic to cats?
If you have orchids and are thinking about getting a cat, there is no reason to fear because these flowers are not poisonous to your cat. However, that being said, you probably won’t want them snacking on its leaves or flowers.
For that reason, it is recommended to take measures to keep your flowers in a place that your cat won’t be able to reach.
Are orchids poisonous to dogs?
No, orchids are non-toxic to dogs and generally, dogs will leave your flowers alone. The problem arises when you use an organic fertilizer. Oftentimes dogs love the smell of this stuff and will want to dig it up. So, if possible try to keep your plants out of reach from your furry little creatures.
Do orchids like humidity?
Yes, orchids do well in high humidity areas. In fact, the target range is anywhere between 40 to 70 percent humidity. For those that live in dry areas, it is important to keep a humidity gauge near where you keep your plants.
That way with a quick glance you can tell whether or not your flowers are doing good.
A quick fix for when the humidity level is to use a spray bottle to mist your plant. Keep in mind the goal here is just to mist the plant itself, not to soak or water it. This will increase the humidity level and help your plant flourish.
In order to maintain the proper humidity level, you will have to mist your plant several times a day.
Another solution is to place your plant in high humidity areas. Basements are a great location during those winter months when you have the heating system going and the air is dry.
You may also enjoy reading: How To Revive A Dying Orchid – 5 Easy To Follow Steps
Do orchids like coffee grounds?
Have you ever thought about throwing used coffee grounds into your plant’s soil? It kind of sounds weird right?
Well, coffee grounds can be a great source of nitrogen for your orchids. In addition, since orchids like acidic soil putting coffee grounds in the soil can lower the ph level and give them an environment they will love.
You May Also Enjoy Reading: A Look At The Best Fertilizer For Orchids
Do orchids cause allergies?
If you are allergic to flowers you have yet another reason to fall in love with these plants. Orchids do not cause allergies. In fact, while they do have pollen, it is sticky pollen and does not go airborne.
For that reason, they are probably one of the best flowers to have if you have suffered from allergies to flowers.
Do orchids like ice cubes?
Watering your orchids with ice cubes is not only extremely easy to do, but it is also healthy for your flowers as well. I say this for 3 reasons.
First, orchids will get the same amount of water. Because ice cubes are uniform in size they will always get the same amount of water. You no longer have to fear of overwatering them.
Next, they get a steady stream of water over a longer period of time. Rather than giving them one douce of water, ice cubes will allow for a slow release of water.
Lastly, it is just easier.
We as humans tend to be on the lazy side and well, if something is easy then we are going to do it. So if you find yourself forgetting to water your plants. This method might be best for you.
Do deer eat orchids?
Unfortunately for us as gardeners deer find orchids to be a tasty treat and won’t hesitate twice to eat them.
However, there are a number of different deer repellents that can be bought at a gardening store to deter deer from munching on your flowers.
If you are like me and you don’t like the idea of using chemicals on your plants you can also try some effective homemade methods to deter deer.
One option I like is to use dryer sheets. For some reason, deer do not like the smell of these sheets and will stay clear of them. Simply clip a few of these sheets on nearby plants and they should stay away.
Another interesting tactic is to use fishing line.
Fishing line is very difficult to see and deer well they don’t like the feel of it. To use this method, you can put stakes in your garden and apply a single layer of the fishing line above and around your plants.
Can orchids and succulents be planted together?
Orchids and succulents have very similar water and soil requirements. For that reason, they can be planted together. In fact, they complement each other so well that I think it is one of the best flower arrangements out there.
Can you fertilize orchids while blooming?
Flowers need energy when they are growing, blooming and even when they are dormant. With that being said, yes, I would recommend that you continue to fertilize your orchids even while it is blooming.
Can orchids change color?
So you just got yourself a new white orchid. However, rather than the second bloom being that same rich white color, it is more of an off white color. Should you be concerned? Can orchids change color?
Yes, they do change colors. No, you won’t see drastic color changes, but a minor change of color is common. There are a number of different factors that can affect the color including the lighting and the temperature.
How long will an orchid live?
Forever. Yes, it is true, with proper care, orchids can live forever.
Are orchids annuals or perennials?
Orchids are perennials. This means that after blooming they will go into a dormant stage. It may appear that the plant is dead, but don’t worry this is just a normal phase that it goes through.
Once again, it will come out of the dormant stage and produce those beautiful flowers.
Are blue orchids real?
No blue orchids are not blue, but rather phalaenopsis (which one white) that have been dyed blue. You will know this for sure when the flower blooms again because on the next bloom it will return to its natural color.
What do orchids smell like?
Like the plant itself which comes in a number of different shapes and colors, orchids also have a distinct smell. Some smell really good while others smell really bad.
Most of the orchids you buy at a grocery store or local store probably won’t have a smell to them. In order to get a fragrant orchid, you will have to go to a place that specializes in orchids.
Here are a few examples:
- Vanilla planifolia smells like vanilla.
- Rhynchostylis gigantea smells very citrusy.
- Phalaenopsis violacea has been known to produce a spicy cinnamon smell.
- Miltoniopsis santanaei smells like a rose.
- Aeranthes grandalena smells like jasmine.
Are orchids flowers or plants?
Orchids or Orchidaceae are classified as a flowering plant.
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