Orchid Flower Information

Cultural Merit

• In ancient Greece, the orchid flower symbolized virility. Mexico's Aztec Indians highly regarded the blossom for its healing and curative properties. During the Victorian era, the orchid signified wealth and eminence in England.

Scents and Flavors

• Delicate orchids boast vibrant hues of purple, red, orange and assorted color combinations. They emit an alluring fragrance used in the making of perfumes. Orchid seedpods supply the popular flavoring known as vanilla. Salep -- a conventional beverage of Turkey -- contains orchid extract, which is also an ingredient in Turkish ice cream.

Orchid Growth

• Orchids do not cultivate in soil; the plant roots affix to rocks and trees, gaining moisture and nourishment from the atmosphere. They thrive in a wide range of habitats throughout the world, which may be a reason why these flowers symbolize strength.

Diseases and Insects

• Orchids are susceptible to bacterial, viral and fungal diseases. Bacteria- and fungus-infected plants can survive following removal of affected areas, but a viral disease is incurable and requires disposal of the orchid. Caterpillars, beetles and whiteflies feed on orchids, and aphids suck the juices from the plant; insecticide treatments prevent these pests from further damaging the plant.