Orchids Growing in the Wild

Habitat

• The four ways orchid plants grow are terrestrial, or growing in soil; epiphytes (also known as "air plants"), or naturally occurring on trees; lithophytes, or growing on rocks; and subterranean, where the orchid grows below the surface of the planting medium. Hot and humid tropical forests, such as those of Brazil and Peru, become ideal homes to countless species of orchids, but some can actually grow in subarctic regions as well.

Wild Orchid Types

• Some of the most stunning examples of wild orchid genera have also become many of the most popular flowers. Among these are Dendrobium, Cattleya, Phalaenopsis, Phragmipedium, Stanhopea, Cymbidium and Paphiopedilum. Vandas grow wild all over the islands of Hawaii. Sophronittis grandiflora is a native of Brazil. Ludisia are native to Asia. Brassia are found in South Florida, the West Indies and Central America.

Concerns

• With the encroachment of civilizations and industrial demolitions of rainforests and other habitats, the environments and ecosystems or orchids have been changing. Problems can arise when well-meaning collectors, growers and hybridizers tear through jungles and other landscapes, unaware of their potential impact. Certain countries now have laws in place that protect native orchids in some regions. It is wise to investigate not only the local legalities when orchid hunting, but also know the general and appropriate manner to study or harvest these flowers. Damaging other species and their environs while in the pursuit of orchids is counterproductive.