#11 Phalaenopsis Orchids

One of the most common types of orchids, phalaenopsis orchids, also known as “moth orchids,” are ideal for beginners. They are relatively easy to grow inside and stay in bloom for most of the year. Phalaenopsis orchids prefer diffused lighting and moderate humidity, so try placing yours in the kitchen or bathroom.

#12 Psychopsis Orchids

Psychopsis orchids are also known as “butterfly orchids” because their speckled petals look like butterflies dancing in the breeze. They are relatively easy to grow as they have a good tolerance for a wide range of temperature and light conditions and can bloom for many months.

#13 Paphiopedilum Orchids

The fused petals of paphiopedilum orchids create a pouch that looks a lot like a ballet flat, which is why this orchid is often referred to as the “lady’s slipper orchid.” This orchid is an easy-to-grow houseplant and is great for beginners, with petals in a variety of colors with speckled and striped patterns.

#14 Dendrobium Orchids

There are as many as 1,800 different species of dendrobium orchids. These orchids like to grow in small pots and often have tall, top-heavy blooms that require staking for support. Dendrobium orchids require cooler temperatures and less humidity than other orchids.

#15 Phaius Orchids

Phaius orchids, also known as “nun’s cap orchids,” can grow up to 4 feet tall. They have large leaves at their base and flowers that come in colors like white, pink, red, and purple. Phaius orchids can grow outside year-round (without freezing) and typically bloom in the winter.

#16 Maxillaria Orchids

Often found in tropical areas, maxillaria orchids like bright light and can take a lot of water. There are more than 300 species of maxillaria orchids and most are known for their fragrance of coconut and vanilla. Maxillaria orchids bloom in early spring.

#17 Phragmipedium Orchids

Unlike a vast majority of other types of orchids, Phragmipedium orchids thrive in wet conditions and prefer to have “wet feet.” This comes as no surprise since these orchids are commonly found on the sides of streams and rivers. Phragmipedium orchids look much like lady’s slipper orchids with petals that form a pouch.

#18 Catasetum Orchids

As one of the most unique orchids, Catasetum orchids have unusually waxy flowers and produce both male and female flower buds. If the plant is touched or bumped, the male flowers will actually shoot pollen into the air.

#19 Lycaste Orchids

Many species of Lycaste orchids are fragrant with scents like lemon and cinnamon. These orchids shed their leaves during dormancy revealing spikes that can be quite sharp. Lycaste orchids come in colors like white, yellow, and red, and bloom in late winter to early spring.

#20 Ludisia Orchids

Also known as “jewel orchids,” Ludisia orchids make up a rare genus that only includes one species. These orchids have dark green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the fall and winter. Ludisia orchids don’t need a lot of sunlight and do well as indoor houseplants.

#21 Vanilla Orchids

Vanilla, one of the most popular fragrances and spices, actually comes from a genus of orchids. Vanilla orchids are the only type of orchids that grow on vines and need a lot of vertical space. Individual flowers only last about a day, but the plant will continue to produce them for up to 1 – 2 months.

#22 Brassavola Orchids

Nicknamed “lady of the night orchids,” brassavola orchids have white and green flowers with narrow petals that release a fragrant scent in the evening. These orchids can be grown in a pot or on an orchid mount and flower in early winter.