Extremely popular with orchid growers, this large genus contains about 1,200 species native to quite a large area that ranges from India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia through to New Guinea, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. With so many species, the genus boasts an amazing diversity of plant habit, flower form, and color. Examples range from soft-stemmed epiphytic species that grow on other plants for support, to varieties that grow on the naked surfaces of rocks. The leaves may be long and elongated or oblong-shaped. Flowers come in a dazzling mix of color, shape, and size and are borne singly or in clusters along the stem. Plants are dormant during the dry season, bursting into flower after rainfall to produce the next season's growth.
CULTIVATION
The cultivation of particular species varies dramatically, though generally a very well-drained mixture of bark and charcoal, often with a bit of added sphagnum moss, is ideal. Propagation is by division or cuttings, depending on the species.
Top Tip
These plants are best grown in containers, and once established they dislike disturbance. Use stakes to give the flower stems extra support.
CULTIVATION
The cultivation of particular species varies dramatically, though generally a very well-drained mixture of bark and charcoal, often with a bit of added sphagnum moss, is ideal. Propagation is by division or cuttings, depending on the species.
Top Tip
These plants are best grown in containers, and once established they dislike disturbance. Use stakes to give the flower stems extra support.
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