Types of Common Orchids

Moth Orchids

• Moth orchids belong to the Phalaenopsis genus. More than 12,000 species and hybrid garden varieties of Phalaenopsis exist for gardeners to choose, including common varieties such as Sussex Pearl, Femme Fatale and Southern Ruby. Moth orchids bear single flowers for as long as two to five months. The native Asian plants have thick roots attached to trees and rocks in their native jungle environment. The plants require regular light, but not direct sunlight. Sandra Mason of the University of Illinois recommends placing them east, or shaded west or south window.

Lady Slipper Orchids

• Lady slipper orchids belong to the Paphiopedilum genus. The native Asian jungle plants bear as many as three mottled, striped or solid flowers simultaneously, many colors except red and blue. Lady slippers, or paphs, display large, ornate flowers with complex shapes that often have pitchers or pitcherlike protrusions. Common, easy-to-grow paphs species Argus Paphiopedilum argus from the Philippines, P. callosum and P. sukhakulii from Thailand, P. wardii from Burma and China and P. fairrieanum from India.

Cattleya Orchids

• The American Orchid Society cites Cattleyas genus Cattleya as among the most popular species of orchids, and one of the most common. Species of the genus and its many cultivars come in a number of colors, shapes and sizes, although the basic growing requirements are the same. The availability of Cattleya species, hybrids and cultivars varies from region to region throughout the United States, as those suited to growth in regions such as Florida won't grow in places such as Northern California.

Other Orchids

• Orchids are most commonly categorized by genus, not species, as the category orchid comprises an entire family of plants. Other common orchid genera include Dendrobium and Oncidium, which grow in doors in colder North American climates but require much care. According to Bob and Lynn Wellenstein, botanists at AnTec Laboratory, a number of genera similar to Paphiopedilum/lady slippers exist. Collectively known as slipper orchids, these genera include Phragmipedium, Cypripedium, Selenipedium and Mexipedium.

  According to Bob and Lynn Wellenstein, botanists at AnTec Laboratory, a number of genera similar to Paphiopedilum/lady slippers exist. Collectively known as slipper orchids, these genera include Phragmipedium, Cypripedium, Selenipedium, and Mexipedium.