Orkidetyypit

Orchid types refer to the vast diversity found within the Orchidaceae family, one of the largest families of flowering plants. These orchids are broadly categorized into two main groups: terrestrial and epiphytic. Terrestrial orchids grow in the ground, anchoring their roots in soil, leaf litter, or humus. Examples include the slipper orchids and the ghost orchid. Epiphytic orchids, on the other hand, grow on other plants, typically trees, but do not parasitize them. Instead, they absorb nutrients and moisture from the air, rain, and surrounding debris. The majority of orchid species are epiphytic, with well-known examples being Phalaenopsis (moth orchids) and Cattleya.

Beyond this fundamental growth habit, orchids are further classified by their habitat, such as tropical, temperate, or alpine environments, which influences their specific needs for light, temperature, and humidity. Another classification considers their flower structure and pollination strategies, leading to categories like monopodial orchids, which grow from a single stem, and sympodial orchids, which grow from underground rhizomes. The sheer number of species, estimated to be over 25,000, means that classifications can also be based on genus, such as Vanda, Dendrobium, or Cymbidium, each possessing unique characteristics in terms of leaf shape, growth pattern, and bloom form. Understanding these orchid types is crucial for cultivation and appreciating their ecological roles.