Introduction
While orchids may be exotic and rare to others, to many Singaporeans it is probably just an everyday flower that looks and smells kind of nice. But have you ever stopped to really look at this flower and fully appreciate its beauty? Whether you’re just starting to get curious about them or wanting to learn more about the variety that your grandmother planted, this post is for you!
Without further ado, here are the 7 types of orchids that you’ve most likely seen in Singapore.
1. Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid)
Colours
White, pink, purple, yellow, peach, dual colours. The most commonly available colours are white and purple.
Characteristics
These beautiful orchids have large, flat blooms with a distinctive lip. They are low maintenance and highly adaptable to indoor conditions.
Size
Typically, Phalaenopsis orchids have a stem length of 50-70 cm. This is the standard size available at most flower markets. Miniature ones measuring 25-35cm are also available but there are less colours available for this size.
Longevity
With proper care, cut Phalaenopsis orchids can last up to 2-3 weeks.
Best For
Congratulations arrangement, indoor decor (as a potted plant), trailing flower in cascading bridal bouquets, CNY festive decor
2. Mokara
Colors
Orange, red, pink and purple
Characteristics
The Mokara variety is actually a cross between the Ascocentrum, Arachnis, and Vanda. Its petals feel waxy to the touch and can be slightly ruffled or have an elongated form.
Size
Mokara orchids are available in different stem lengths, but they are generally around 40-60 cm.
Longevity
Cut Mokara orchids can last around 1 week.
Best For
Birthdays, congratulations, corporate events, reception floral arrangement, bouquet, or purchased as potted plant
3. Dendrobiums
Colours
White, pink, purple, and green.
Characteristics
As compared to other orchids, dendrobiums have rather slender stems. The loose flowers are commonly used for prayer offerings and religious rites in Singapore.
Size
Dendrobium stem lengths range from 30-60 cm.
Longevity
Cut Dendrobiums can last 1-2 weeks.
Best For
Loose flowers are used in prayer offerings while the cut flowers can be used for bouquets and arrangements or funeral wreaths. Alternatively, they can be purchased as a potted plant.
4. Cymbidiums
Colors
White, green, pink, yellow and burgundy.
Characteristics
Cymbidiums are popular for their sturdy stems and showy blooms. The petals are large, waxy and thick.
Size
Stems can reach 60-90 cm.
Longevity
Cut Cymbidiums can last up to 2 weeks in an air conditioned environment. Unlike other varieties, Cymbidiums also do well in temperatures as low as 12-16 degree celsius.
Best for
Indoor decor (as potted plant), congratulations, table arrangement. Cut flowers may be used in bouquets for many different occasions
5. James Storie Orchids
Colors
Red and yellow. Red James Storie is much more readily available than the yellow variety
Characteristics
Although they are part of the dendrobium family, James Storie stand out on its own with its more elongated petals. Its stems also feel sturdier compared to the regular dendrobiums.
Size
The stem length varies, but cut James Storie are generally around 40-60 cm.
Longevity
Cut James Story orchids can last up to 2 weeks.
Best for
Corporate table arrangement, CNY festive decor, congratulations, bouquet for joyous occasion
6. Oncidiums (Dancing Lady Orchids)
Colors
Yellow
Characteristics
Also known as golden shower, every stem of this orchid is lined with multiple delicate blooms, creating a bright and cheerful display.
Size
Stem lengths range from 40-60 cm.
Longevity
Cut Oncidiums can last around 1 week
Best For
Congratulations, table arrangement, bouquet, outdoor decor (as potted plant)
7. Tiger Orchids
Colors
Red, yellow and white
Characteristics
For the red and yellow varieties, the petals of tiger orchids exhibits heavy spotting with reddish-brown markings. On the much rarer white tiger orchids, the spots are bright pink in colour.
Size
They can grow up to a meter. But, as a cut flower, they are more commonly available in 50-70cm lengths.
Longevity
Cut tiger orchids last 1-2 weeks
Caring For Cut Orchids
Place your cut orchids in a clean vase with fresh water, change the water regularly, and keep them away from direct sunlight which might scorch them. As orchids are tropical flowers, remember to mist them lightly with fresh water every 2-3 days.
Caring For Potted Orchids
Check that your pot has drainage holes to get rid of excess water. Water once every week or when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Water amount varies depending on the size of the orchids and its roots, but a general rule of thumb is to stop when you see water coming out of the drainage holes. Avoid excess watering as they can lead to rotting of the roots. A healthy orchid should have bright green and shiny leaves.
Conclusion
This concludes our list of commonly seen orchid varieties in the Singapore context. Still want more? Consider heading down to a local nursery to view more varieties and talk to their experts.
Here are some popular nurseries in Singapore to get fresh potted orchids:
North East: SG Orchids, Wee Lee Nursery
Central North: Ji Mei, Far East Flora, Candy Floriculture
North West: Toh Garden, Woon Leng Nursery
