orkid

Orkid, or orchid, refers to flowering plants in the family Orchidaceae, one of the largest families of flowering plants. With roughly 28,000 described species across about 760 genera, orkid are found in diverse habitats around the world, though they are most diverse in tropical regions. They are prized for their varied flower forms and long-lasting blooms.

Orkid flowers are highly specialized. Most exhibit bilateral symmetry and a unique lip (labellum) that guides pollinators to the reproductive structures. The male and female parts are fused into a single column. Many species produce pollinia, compact masses of pollen that attach to pollinators, enabling efficient transfer between flowers.

Orkid can be epiphytic, growing on trees, or terrestrial, rooted in soil or rock. They rely on symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi to germinate seeds in the wild. Their habitats range from humid tropical forests to temperate woodlands and grasslands, contributing to their ecological diversity and specialized pollination strategies, including nectar rewards and deception in some genera.

Orkid are widely cultivated as ornamental plants. Popular groups include Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Dendrobium, Vanda, and Paphiopedilum. They generally require excellent drainage, reliable humidity, and good air movement, with temperature ranges tied to their native climates. Propagation is mainly through division or, commercially, aseptic seed culture and tissue culture.

Conservation concerns arise from habitat loss, illegal collection, and overharvesting. Many species are protected under international agreements such as CITES, and ex situ programs in botanic gardens and nurseries aim to preserve genetic diversity and support restoration efforts.