Orchids are not only a classic houseplant, but also an iconic plant throughout history. They are one of the most ancient groups in the plant kingdom, with around 100 million years of history behind them.
There are roughly 28,000 species of orchid – you’re spoiled for choice! To narrow it down, here are 8 of our favourite orchids to grow as houseplants.
Overview of our top 8 orchid species
- White Towering Nobile Orchid – Dendrobium Nobilis
- Moth Orchid – Phalaenopsis
- Vanilla Orchid – Vanilla planifolia
- Double Stemmed Giant Flowered Orchid – Delft Blue Phalaenopsis
- Ladies Slipper Orchid – Paphiopedilum Green Striped
- Firebird Towering Orchid – Dendrobium Nobilis Firebird
- Dendrobium ‘King’ Towering Orchid
- Dendrobium ‘Love Memory’ Towering Orchid
For more details on these plants, read below.
1. White Towering Nobile Orchid – Dendrobium Nobilis
Dendrobiums are vigorous plants with long-lasting blooms. This variety will provide you with stunning towers of white, sweetly scented flowers.
2. Moth Orchid – Phalaenopsis
Moth orchids originate in South East Asia and boast displays of multiple flower heads. They get their name from the shape of the flowers, which appear to have wings like moths or butterflies. These beautiful plants will thrive in bright, indirect light.
3. Vanilla Orchid – Vanilla planifolia
This orchid is a real vanilla plant! Not only does it give you beautiful white blooms, but it can also provide you with fresh vanilla pods. They are very easy to care for and – even without flowers or vanilla pods – make for stunning climbing houseplants.
4. Double Stemmed Giant Flowered Orchid – Delft Blue Phalaenopsis
This unique variety has large, white flowers with bright blue marbling. It is the perfect houseplant to use as a focal point in a room, as it definitely draws attention! This plant is easy to look after and will thrive in bright, indirect light.
5. Ladies Slipper Orchid – Paphiopedilum Green Striped
‘Ladies Slipper’ orchids are a rare variety with unique-looking green and white flowers. These interesting flowers can last for months, adding character to whichever room you choose.
6. Firebird Towering Orchid – Dendrobium Nobilis Firebird
This towering orchid is unusual in its vivid, fiery orange blooms. These flowers have it all: striking colour, a pleasant fragrance, and the ability to last for up to 15 weeks a year.
7. Dendrobium ‘King’ Towering Orchid
This orchid produces an abundance of striking purple flowers. These blooms are not only gorgeous, but they can also last for up to 15 weeks a year! This is an easy plants to care for and is incredibly rewarding over time.
8. Dendrobium ‘Love Memory’ Towering Orchid
‘Love Memory’ boasts towering displays of white flowers, tinged with purple at the edges. These blooms contrast beautifully against the dark green foliage.