"The flower is the poetry of reproduction. It is an example of the eternal seductiveness of life."
~ Jean Giraudoux
This is a brief description on Orchid plant anatomy.
Hopefully it will be helpful if you are new to growing orchids. The roots and stem form the bottom portion of our orchid plant. These absorbs and brings life needed nutrients to the plant. Sometimes, within the root system you may find the water absorption system of the orchid. These are called pseudobulbs. They are very efficient at absorbing and storing water. However not all orchids have pseudobulbs. Remember in the rain forests where some of the orchids grow the showers are usually quick.
Above the roots you will generally find a stem from which the leaves are born. The stems are quite sturdy in some orchids and are delicate in others, especially, the miniature orchids.
A healthy leaf is one that is firm, non-wrinkled, and bright green. It is not a dark green leave which usually means that the plant needs more light.
The spike is usually the bearer of the buds and eventually the flowers. Some spikes will produce one flower or cluster of flowers (e.g. Cattleya). The Phalaenopsis spike will produce flowers all along the spike in succession.
The most intricate parts of the orchid is the flower. There vary, not only in color but in shape as well. They all have the same parts but they vary as to where and the number on the orchid plant.
The petals are always three in number. It is the bottom petal that is also called the "lip" or "labellum". It is here that forms a platform for the insects that pollinate orchids. It is also here where the most stunning orchid colors are. These colors will attract the pollinators. The Paphiopedilums or lady slippers have a deeper lip that almost resembles a sack.
As varied as the orchid species are you will see many different variations on the anatomy of the orchid plants.
Comments
The final collage is simply wonderful. All of these pictures would translate into the most beautiful greeting cards as they are so professional.
I am inspired by your commentary to try with orchids as house plants once more. My success rate to date has been very poor indeed but I have noted carefully what you say.
Your postings give me immense pleasure. Thank you so much.
I am a step below being new to Orchids - I do not have any. But, I almost bought one yesterday.
Thanks so much for this timely post, you have pushed me over the edge. I am going to plunge in and buy my first orchid.
Eileen
Marnie
Nothing ho-hum about this post!!! :o)
Christine in Alaska
What wonderful macro shots.
I used to read Nero Wolfe stories years ago (mysteries) and Nero grew orchids. They were his love and his babies. That is my only exposure to orchids.
I really need to expand myself. Thanks for the primer.
With your green thumb, they will thrive, Eileen! Orchids are so stunning, it is hard to walk past them and not be in awe.
Thanks, Krista. Orchids are very photogenic!
Sounds like you are not alone, Christine. Like African Violets, I find orchids thrive on my neglect :)
How kind, iMac. Your Wales photos have left ME breathless :)
Do hope you give them a try, Lindalou. You can often find small orchids very reasonable at Kroger or Trader Joe's!
We tried our hand at orchids (well, one) but it's looking pretty withered in the corner.
Thanks, Rick, and welcome! Don't give up on orchids. They are hardier than you think!
I'm honored and thank you, Amy!
Kate, you are right on! Orchids seem to last forever. It's as though they say, "Hey, I'm pricey but worth it!" Hope your weather is as delightful as ours, dear friend :)
Howdy Dee, and thanks. Just returned from a chuckle after reading your post ... I REALLY need to shop at the nursery with YOU!
Again..gorgeous photos!
kiki~
Thanks, Kiki, and you too enjoy this magical day!
Great information on orchids.
Lucy