Debunking Phalaenopsis Orchid Myths

Their exotic beauty, the rarity of many species and the early expense of shipping orchid plants to Europe and America from the remote tropical environments in which many species were discovered have led to perpetuation of many orchid myths through the decades. For all their fragile appearance, Phalaenopsis orchids are not as rare, fragile or hard to grow as most people assume. The largest plant family, more than 28,000 orchid varieties have been discovered in nature with orchid growers propagating an estimated 110,000 hybrids.

Let’s debunk some common orchid myths:

Myth: Orchids are a tropical plant and can only survive in hot, humid, tropical environments.

False. While many orchid species are native to the equatorial tropics of Asia and South America, orchids grow in most climates and in most countries around the world. Orchids can be found in the deserts of the American Southwest, temperate Midwestern forests and the frozen tundra of northern Alaska.

Myth: Orchids are expensive to buy and raise.

False. While it is true that orchids were once so expensive that they could only be afforded by Europe’s titled upper classes or the very wealthy, this is a myth long laid to rest. In the late 1700s to mid-1800s, tropical orchids were typically discovered during long sea voyages by early explorers and only sporadically brought to Europe, making them an expensive rarity. Hybridization of orchids began in the 1850s, steadily driving down prices. Today, orchids are readily obtainable at reasonable prices. Several popular varieties like Phalaenopsis orchids can even be purchased at local garden centers and groceries for under $20.

Myth: Orchids are difficult to grow.

False. Many popular orchid species, particularly Just Add Ice Phalaenopsis orchids, are amazingly hardy and will thrive in most indoor environments. Like all plants, orchids require water, light, air and fertilizer. Given no more attention that you give any house plant, orchids will live many years, blooming repeatedly.