Types of Orchids: From the Potted "Moth Orchid" to Luxury Cut Flowers
Orchids are a fascinating plant family. There are over 25,000 species worldwide, but for us flower lovers, the ones that matter most are the ones that bring us joy in the living room or in a grand bouquet.
Tip from florist Monika (our orchid expert):
"I've been growing orchids at home for years, and I know that warmth is the most important thing for them. These exotic beauties are extremely sensitive to cold in winter. If they get a chill during transport from the shop, they'll drop their buds almost instantly. That's exactly why at KvětinyExpres.cz we guarantee safe, warm delivery through our Airway service. That's the absolute basic requirement for getting weeks of blooms at home."
Pick an orchid that will bring you joy
Also known as "moth orchids," they're popular for their large, colorful blooms and relatively simple care. Phalaenopsis is hugely popular worldwide thanks to its beautiful flowers and relatively easy care.
1. Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) – The Queen of Windowsills
This is the best-known orchid, and it's probably sitting in your home too. It's incredibly rewarding and popular worldwide.
✦ Why you'll want one: It blooms tirelessly for several months straight and is ideal for beginners. ✦ Care: It needs a bright spot (but not direct sun) and watering by soaking once a week. ✦ Our tip: If you like smaller blooms, try the Phalaenopsis Kolibri variety.
2. Cymbidium (Boat Orchid) – Luxury for the Vase
While Phalaenopsis rules the windowsill, Cymbidium is the star of luxury cut-flower bouquets.
✦ Appearance: A long, sturdy stem wrapped in large, waxy blooms. ✦ Vase life: It stays in perfect condition in a vase for an incredible 3 to 4 weeks! ✦ Gift tip: If you're looking for something truly "spectacular," our Cymbidium color mix is the obvious choice.
3. Vanda – The Blue Wonder
Vanda is known for its large flowers with a unique lattice-like pattern, often in shades of blue or purple.
✦ Fun fact: It's often grown entirely without any substrate, simply suspended loosely in a glass vase. ✦ Our tip: For lovers of the exotic, we offer the Vanda orchid mix.
4. Dendrobium, Oncidium, and Others
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✦ Dendrobium: Has flowers along the whole length of its stem, which makes it look a bit like flowering bamboo.
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✦ Oncidium ("Dancing Ladies"): Carries a flood of tiny yellow blooms. They're beautiful, but more demanding about light than the classic moth orchid.
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✦ Miltonia: Has flowers with a scent similar to roses and attractively patterned petals. Prefers a temperature between 18–24 °C.
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✦ Cambria: A hardy hybrid species created by crossing various genera. It's ideal for the home and very easy to grow.
Oncidium
Also known as "dancing ladies," they have small flowers with characteristic petals and are often branched. This species is popular in the United States, Mexico, Brazil, and other Latin American countries.
- Growing: Oncidiums are generally easy to grow and well suited to the home. They prefer bright but indirect light and a well-drained substrate.
Miltonia
Sometimes called the "orchid rose," this plant has flowers with a scent similar to roses and attractively patterned petals. One of Miltonia's hallmark traits is its pleasant fragrance, which can range from light and floral to intense and sweet.
- Flowering: Miltonias typically bloom once or twice a year, with flowers lasting several weeks. The inflorescence can hold several blooms and can be lush and long-lasting.
- Growing: Miltonias prefer bright but indirect light and a temperature between 18–24 °C. They're often grown in an orchid substrate that's well-drained yet still able to hold moisture. Watering should be regular but moderate, to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Cambria
This hybrid orchid species, created by crossing various genera, is popular for its attractive flowers and relatively easy care.
- Growing: Cambrias are generally easy to grow and well suited to the home. They need bright but indirect light and a well-drained substrate. They're usually forgiving of care mistakes and can thrive well in home conditions.
- Flowering: Cambrias can bloom year-round depending on growing conditions and the specific hybrid. Flowers can last from several weeks to months and can be very striking and beautiful.
This is only a small selection of the many orchid species available for growing and collecting. Each species has its own unique characteristics and requires specific care in order to thrive.
Buying and care tips for 2026
If you're not sure how to care for your new orchid, or you're thinking about repotting it, we've put together detailed guides for you:
Frequently Asked Questions About Orchids
Which orchid is easiest for beginners?
✅Phalaenopsis (moth orchid) — it just needs a bright spot out of direct sun
and watering by soaking once a week.
✅Is Vanda suitable for beginners?
No, Vanda is one of the more demanding species — it's grown without substrate
and needs regular, almost daily soaking of the roots plus higher humidity.
✅How long does a Cymbidium orchid last in a vase as a cut flower?
3 to 4 weeks in perfect condition.
✅How many orchid species are there?
Over 25,000 species worldwide, but only a handful of genera are commonly
grown — Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium, Vanda, Dendrobium, Oncidium,
Miltonia, and Cambria.
Order your orchid safely online. We'll make sure it reaches you warm and at its very best.
Team KvětinyExpres.cz
