About Orchid Flowers

Yellow orchid flowers.

Orchid flowers are tropical flowers that can be grown as indoor houseplants with the right light and water requirements. Orchids need significant sun exposure, and with weekly watering and proper care they will reward you with lovely flowers.

Geography

Orchids originally come from cloud forests, a moist and foggy tropical forest. Orchids can be found growing in the wild in South and Central America, Africa and southern Florida, among other places.

Color

Orchid flowers vary widely in color; they can be variegated or display many different markings. Orchids can be found in purple, white, yellow, fuchsia, pink and nearly black hues.

Stem

Orchid flowers cluster off of long green stems. Orchid stems grow elongated oval leaves; when the flowers are not in bloom the stem and leaves remain visible.

Roots

Orchids feature thick white roots that illustrate their origin as epiphytes, or plants that grow on other plants. The thick, spongy roots are better able to soak up dew and rainfall while clinging to such harsh growing environments as bark, stones and tree fiber.

Care

Orchids need indirect sunlight to thrive and at least 10 degrees difference in night and day temperature to bloom. Humidity is beneficial; however, plants need well-draining potting material that will not keep the roots wet.

References

• Flowers: Getting Started with Orchids