Uses Orchids make for beautiful decor in a home, but they also have other uses. The subfamily for each orchid discussed below will be listed with the species’ corresponding informative table. Each subfamily has specific characteristics, like growth habit or flower morphology. Sub-familiesĭue to differences in the way orchid flowers are constructed, their vegetative form, or the growth habits of these plants, the Orchidaceae family is divided into subfamilies. Sometimes orchids will use scent to attract pollinators as well, like the rotten meat smell of the Foul Giant ( Bulbophyllum grandiflorum), which attracts flies. They may appear like a butterfly, wasp, or even a completely different species of plant. The flowers will use mimicry in order to attract pollinator insects. PollinationĪnother intriguing feature about orchids, which has fascinated scientists and collectors for some time, is the way orchid flowers use deception to accomplish pollination. Typically, the bottom petal is quite showy and wide to attract pollinators, and it is therefore called the lip. This column is where the reproductive structures are housed, and thus the clumps of pollen are called pollinia. Second, each flower contains 3 petals, 3 sepals, and a column at the center where everything meets. First, the flowers are bilaterally symmetrical, and therefore pleasing to the eye because each side mirrors the other. Again, they can vary on so many levels, but a few characteristics remain the same. So, what about orchids is so alluring? The first noteworthy feature of these plants is their flowers. Some orchids are better as indoor houseplants, while others prefer to be outdoors. ![]() Some orchid flowers have beautiful fragrances that smell of honey, vanilla, or cinnamon. Some are epiphytic (growing on other plants), some are lithophytic (growing on rocks), and some are terrestrial (growing in the ground). Many orchid species live in the tropics, while others grow on shady forest floors, and still, others inhabit cool meadows. Today, they can be found growing on all continents except Antarctica. It is believed that orchids have existed for millions of years-way back to the time of the dinosaurs. About Orchids These unique tropical flowers are delicate and beautiful, each type having a fresh appearance.
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