- 1). Observe whether the orchid is growing out of another plant or in a potted medium. There are two main types of orchid species. If the orchid is growing out of another plant or tree, it is called an epiphyte orchid. If the orchid is in a potting medium, the orchid is a terrestrial orchid species, which is the most common orchid species available commercially.
- 2). Look at the leaves to help determine the species without a bloom. If the leaves are dark green and wide and have a single crease down the entire leaf, it is a Phalaenopsis orchid. These orchids are the most common orchids sold in stores and nurseries. If the leaves are narrower with a mottled, yellow and dark green color, the orchid is a Paphiopedilum orchid. This orchid's bloom resembles a lady's slipper flower. If the leaves are very thin and numerous, climbing all the way up the stem of the plant, the orchid is a Vanda orchid, whose bloom resembles the Phalaenopsis orchid but with a distinct star shape. The Cymbidium orchid has long, spear-like leaves that resemble palm leaves.
- 3). Examine the plant for the presence of pseudobulbs, which are pod-shaped leaves near the base. When the plant needs water, these pseudobulbs become wrinkled and shrink. Some orchid species, such as the Cattleya, Miltonia and Oncidium, have large pseudobulbs.
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