5 Orchids that Make Perfect Houseplants

Orchids are quite a sight to see. Their beautiful blooms and elegant aesthetics make them great houseplants that will surely make your home even more beautiful. Here are 5 orchids that make perfect houseplants.

1. Dendrobium Orchids

With over 1800 species, Dendrobium Orchids are one of the largest genus in the Orchid Family. Dendrobiums require cooler temperatures and less humidity when compared to other genera. They require smaller pots as well as staking to support the tall, top-heavy spikes. These are perfect orchids to put in a windowsill with indirect light and make great accents to any room.

2. Oncidium Orchids

Also known as “Dancing Lady Orchids”, Oncidiums make great houseplants. They require low light conditions and prefer indirect light. They will flourish in ambient room temperatures of 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 30°C) during the day and 60°F to 65°F (16°C to 18°C) during night time. The cooler temperature requirement makes them easy to care for, however, they need consistent humidity. This genus is rather large with over 300 in the species and they bloom usually in the fall.

3. Phalaenopsis Orchids

Commonly known as moth orchids due to their shape and color, Phalaenopsis Orchids are some of the most common genus in the Orchid family. They bloom year-round and flowers last up to three months at a time. Phalaenopsis Orchids require indirect sunlight when kept outdoors as direct sunlight may damage the petals of the bloom. They should be watered every 1-2 weeks allowing the potting medium to dry out before watering them again. These orchids can be placed in living room or kitchen windows and will surely grab anyone's attention with their almost year-round blooms.

4. Cattleya Orchids

Cattleya Orchids are some of the most popular orchids due to the wide selection of patterns and vibrant colors. Commonly known as “Corsage Orchids”, these orchids are a popular choice for beginners as well as experts. They thrive when placed near sources of abundant light, such as windows facing the east or south as the morning sunlight will provide ample light to the plant. They tolerate a wide range of temperatures with the daytime ambient temperature at the minimum of 70°F (20°C) and as low as 10°F (6°C) at night. This makes them perfect indoor orchids.

5. Cymbidium Orchids

Cymbidium Orchids are some of the most unique orchids in a sense that their spikes can produce up to 30 blooms. These tall spikes make great corner pieces in living rooms as long as they are exposed to ample light such as near an east or south window where they will benefit from a good amount of natural indirect light. They thrive in warmer temperatures during the day and low ambient temperatures at night but not lower than 35°F (2°C). Their potting medium should never get bone-dry and should be maintained with medium moisture.