Orchids are one of the world's most diverse and beautiful families of flowering plants. Their intricate blooms, vibrant colours, and unique orchid flowers have captivated gardeners and plant enthusiasts for centuries.
Did you know that there are thousands of different types of orchids? In this blog, we've explored the various types of orchids, focusing on those found in Singapore and discussing the broader spectrum of all orchids.
How Many Types Of Orchids Are There?
The sheer number of orchid species can be overwhelming. Orchids are one of the most diverse families of flowering plants. They are native to many regions worldwide, including Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
So, how many types of orchids are there? There are over 25,000 known species of orchids, which can be grouped into more than 800 genera.
The incredible diversity allows orchids to thrive in almost every environment on Earth, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts and even temperate regions.
Orchids have adapted from various ecological niches, displaying multiple forms and growing habits. Some orchids are epiphytic, growing on trees and deriving nutrients from the air and rain. Others are terrestrial and grow in the soil. There are even lithophytic orchids, which grow on rocks.
10 Types Of Orchids You Can Find In Singapore
Thanks to its tropical climate, Singapore has a rich variety of orchids. Let's explore some of the most popular types of orchids in Singapore.
1. Vanda Orchids
Vanda orchids are among the most beloved types of orchids in Singapore. Known for their large, showy flowers and vibrant colours, Vanda orchids thrive in the humid climate of Singapore. They are often seen in gardens, parks, and the famous Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Vanda orchids prefer high humidity levels (around 80%) and temperatures between 25-35°C. They need bright, indirect light and a well-draining, soilless potting mix, typically consisting of bark and peat moss.
Vanda orchids are epiphytic and often have aerial roots, which help them absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
2. Dendrobium Orchids
Dendrobium orchids are highly adaptable and come in different colours and sizes, making them a favourite among gardeners in Singapore. These orchids are often used in hybridisation, resulting in many beautiful varieties.
Dendrobiums thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer moderate humidity between 50% and 70%. They do best in well-draining orchid mixes, such as fir bark, allowing proper air circulation around the roots.
It is crucial to avoid overwatering; typically, watering once a week is enough, but this can vary depending on the type of potting material, environmental conditions, and the specific needs of the orchid species.
These orchids can be fertilised with a balanced fertiliser every 1-2 weeks during the growing season. Pruning involves removing spent flower spikes but leaving the old canes, as they store nutrients and may produce new growth or keikis (baby plants).
3. Phalaenopsis Orchids
Phalaenopsis, also known as the "Moth Orchid," is among the most common orchids in Singaporean homes because its blooms last long and are easy to care for. It is available in various colours, including white, pink, and purple.
They thrive in moderate light, preferring bright, indirect sunlight, and require a humidity level of around 50% to 70%. Watering should be done when the potting medium is dry to the touch, usually once a week. Regularly watering allows the roots to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Phalaenopsis orchids benefit from a well-draining orchid mix, such as bark or sphagnum moss, and regular fertilisation with a balanced orchid fertiliser every two weeks during the growing season. These orchids are easy to care for, making them popular for beginners and experienced growers.
4. Arundina Graminifolia
Also known as the Bamboo Orchid, Arundina graminifolia is an orchid native to Southeast Asia, including Singapore. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall with reedy, bamboo-like stems and narrow, grass-like leaves.
It produces delicate pinkish-purple flowers at the tips of its stems, which are fragrant and bloom more heavily in the summer. The Bamboo Orchid thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, well-draining soil.
Regular watering is needed to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. High humidity and good air circulation are essential for its optimal growth.
Fertilising with a balanced orchid fertiliser every week during its blooming season can help maintain its vibrant petals. The plant also propagates easily through keikis (plantlets), which can be potted separately once they develop roots.
5. Bulbophyllum
Bulbophyllum is among the largest genera within the orchid family, featuring a wide variety of species, including many species in Singapore. These orchids are renowned for their unique and often bizarre flower shapes, intricate patterns, and vibrant colours.
Bulbophyllum species thrive in high humidity and low light conditions, mimicking the dense undergrowth of their natural tropical forest habitats. They are typically epiphytic, growing on trees, but can also be grown in pots with a well-draining orchid mix.
Regular misting helps maintain the high humidity these orchids require. They must also be watered frequently, ensuring the potting medium stays moist but not soggy.
6. Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim
Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim, Singapore's national flower, is a hybrid orchid known for its striking purple and pink blooms. This orchid symbolises resilience and beauty and flourishes in Singapore's tropical climate.
It prefers full sunlight and well-draining soil, making it suitable for outdoor gardens. Regular watering and fertilisation are crucial to maintain its vibrant flowers, which bloom throughout the year. This orchid is a popular choice for both public and private gardens in Singapore.
7. Spathoglottis Plicata
Spathoglottis plicata, commonly known as the Philippine Ground Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that first grew in Southeast Asia and has been naturalised in other regions, such as the Caribbean, Florida, and Hawaii.
It features pleated leaves emerging from pseudobulbs and produces racemes of bright purple to pink flowers, which are resupinate and often display bright yellow and pink markings. Spathoglottis plicata is usually found in sunny areas near swamps, seepages, and streams.
Humidity levels between 50% to 70% are ideal for this tropical orchid. Regular maintenance includes pruning dead foliage and repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the potting medium and provide room for growth.
8. Eulophia Graminea
Eulophia graminea, commonly known as the Grass Orchid, is a terrestrial orchid that thrives in sunny locations with well-drained, moisture-retentive soil.
Its small, greenish-yellow flowers with brown net-like markings and a white-crested lip with a dark purplish-red centre are characterised by a white-crested lip and a dark purplish-red centre.
The inflorescence stalk bears about 10 to 20 flowers. This species is often found in new soil at development sites and is well-suited to growing in pots with a suitable orchid mix.
9. Bromheadia Finlaysoniana
Bromheadia finlaysoniana, known as Finlayson's Bromheadia, is an orchid species native to regions such as Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Pulau Ubin in Singapore. It features slightly fragrant flowers with white or creamy petals and a purple-veined lower lip with a yellow centre.
Bromheadia finlaysoniana prefers sunny, open locations and well-drained soil. It can thrive in garden beds and pots as long as the soil conditions are suitably favourable.
Regular watering and occasional fertilisation during the growing season are essential for optimal growth. They will help maintain the plant's health and promote blooming.
10. Dendrobium Crumenatum
Dendrobium crumenatum, commonly known as the Pigeon Orchid, is an epiphytic orchid frequently seen on roadside trees in Singapore. It blooms approximately nine days after heavy rainstorms, a response triggered by the drop in temperature following the rain.
The white flowers are fragrant and short-lived, lasting just one day. Dendrobium crumenatum prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity, which is typical of its native tropical environment.
It thrives when mounted on trees or grown in pots with good air circulation and an orchid bark mix. Regular watering is necessary, but the roots should dry out between waterings to prevent rot.
Conclusion About Different Types Of Orchids In Singapore
Orchids are a diverse and captivating family of plants, with types of orchids to suit every taste and growing condition. Whether you're admiring the vibrant Vanda orchids in Singapore or cultivating the elegant Cattleya orchids in your home, the world of orchids offers endless beauty and fascination.
For those looking to bring any type of orchids into their lives, Windflower Florist offers a stunning selection of orchid arrangements and bouquets. Our expertly curated collections are perfect for any occasion.
Let us help you celebrate the elegance and charm of orchids with our exceptional floral creations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Different Types Of Orchids In Singapore
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Plant Orchids In Singapore?
Due to Singapore's consistent tropical climate, orchids can be planted year-round. However, the best time to plant them is during the cooler, less rainy months from November to February. This allows the orchids to establish roots before the hotter, wetter months.
Can Epiphytic Orchids Be Grown Outdoors In Singapore?
Many orchids, such as Dendrobiums and Vandas, thrive outdoors in Singapore's tropical climate. These orchids prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. Outdoor orchids should be placed where they receive morning sun and are protected from the harsh afternoon sun.
How Can I Increase The Humidity Of My Indoor Orchids?
To increase humidity for indoor orchids, you can use a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles, place a humidifier near the plants, or regularly mist the orchids. Grouping orchids can also help create a microclimate with higher humidity.
What Is The Recommended Potting Mix For Different Types Of Orchids In Singapore?
The recommended potting mix for orchids typically includes well-draining materials such as bark, perlite, charcoal, and sphagnum moss, for terrestrial orchids like Spathoglottis plicata, a mix of organic potting soil, coarse sand, and compost is suitable.
How Often Should I Fertilise My Different Types Of Orchids In Singapore?
During the growing season (spring and summer), orchids should be fertilised with a balanced fertiliser every two weeks. During the dormant season (fall and winter), fertilisation can be reduced to once a month.
Can Orchids With Fragrant Blooms Be Propagated At Home, And If So, How?
Yes, orchids can be propagated at home. Methods include division, Keiki (baby plant) separation, and seed propagation.
Division involves splitting the plant at the root system, while keikis can be separated from the mother plant once they have developed roots. Seed propagation is more complex and requires sterile conditions.