Encyclia is a genus of orchids consisting of around 250 species. The name is derived from enkykleomai, the Greek word for “to encircle.” This refers to the lips that encircle the column with lateral lopes. Within the horticultural trade, it is abbreviated with the letter “E.”

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As the genus grows on trees, it is considered an epiphyte. However, it can grow on rocks, in which it is considered a lithophyte. The majority of encyclia orchids grow best when they are mounted on a tree fern, branches or EpiWeb plaques.

Most of these are found throughout the Caribbean Islands and in South America. Primarily, they are found in the Bahamas, Florida, Mexico and the rest of the West Indies. The ideal situation is in lowland forest at altitudes of 1000 meters above sea level. This flower is dispersed fairly evenly across this region.

Encyclia orchids are members of the Cattleya Alliance. As such, they should be grown in moderate light with high temperatures during the day and 60 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 degrees Centigrade at night. They must also receive adequate water and air supply in order to be sustainable.

The leaves grow pseudo bulbs that are rather thick compared to other plants. Numerous small flowers ascend from the branches. Birds and bees are responsible for the pollination of this genus. Normally there are eight pollinia, however, some subgroups only contain four.

William Jackson Hooker seperated the encyclia from the genus epindendrum in 1828. This was due to much research into the morphological conditions of the plant.

The most common of these is the encyclia tampensis, known commonly as the “Butterfly Orchid.” This is found most predominantly in Florida, but can be located in both the Bahamas and Cuba. It’s beauty has proven to be the most commercialized and hybridized on the market.

A variety of orchids are by distinguished by their different fragrances, and this is one area that could use more attention by many orchid growers, in respect to their orchid collections. It is estimated that approximately 60% of all the varieties of orchids use their unique scent to attract pollinators, seeking out nectar for food, as well as pollen. Some even imitate the pheromone of female insects, in enticing the male insects to try and mate with the actual flower. The individual fragrance is utilized by plants to attract insects – mainly bees, moths and butterflies – in order to pollinate the flowers. In addition to these interesting facts about orchids, a variety of the species of orchids give off fragrances which are similar to the smell of rotting meat – the flowers look that way also – to attract flies which serve as their pollinators.

The most famous and fragrant of all orchids is the Oncidium Sharry Baby(sometimes referred to and mispronounced as Sherry Baby), that has a smell like milk chocolate. The Orchid Forum has a great picture that serves as a great example – a full and mature example:

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A simple search on the internet will show them for sale and widely available from numerous sources. If you’re lucky, you may even find them in your local hardware store or a home improvement superstore in the orchid aisles.

Another family of sweet-smelling orchids is the Cattleya Alliance. The most recognized is the Rhyncholaelia digbyana, a very strong, fragrant orchid known to be used frequently in the breeding of Cattleya hybrids. It has beautifully attractive fragrance, exhibiting a citrus scent, and is produced after the sundown. A unique characteristic of this sort of orchid is that it is pollinated at night by the common moth.

Compact, small orchids have been produced recently through genetic breeding. Affectionately referred to as Mini-Catts, they have nice flowers and a great fragrance for the size. Much of the aromatic qualities are derived from the larger parent flower, and the vivid color is derived from the small parent flower. Classified in the Sophronitis genus,  and known for being a near odorless orchid, it requires only its bright colored flowers to attract its pollinators – primarily humming-birds.

Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis, the most popular of the carrion orchids(rotten meat-smelling), attract flies and some stingless bees as pollinators. Just by looking at a picture like this one, you can notice that the dark, red flowers appear to be similar to raw meat, and attract flies by their smell and sight to pollinate their flowers.

The fragrance characteristics of orchids is becoming an authoritative category in the judging of orchids at floral exhibitions, and it has been designated as a new, additional criteria by many orchid enthusiasts, the most famous being the Japanese Prize, International Orchid Show. We can only hope that this becomes the start of an ideal, continuing trend, as the flowers can be appreciated for their utter beauty, and the overall fragrance of orchids as well.

The stunning exotic beauty of the orchid has captivated generations of both growers and plant admirers for centuries. Some of the most intriguing varieties include orchids without leaves that are judged strictly for their elegant, colorful and uniquely shaped flowers.

Chiloschista Ramifera

This striking species of orchids originates in the warm tropical regions of Southeast Asia and predominantly Thailand. The petite but sturdy flowers seem to drip from a hanging vine bringing brilliant color to the rainforest. Often found in varying shades of yellow or cream, the petals sport contrasting hues of ochre and tan pigments. The example displayed at www.orchidspecies.com/chilramifera.htm highlights the beauty of this sophisticated flower.

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Campylocentrum Organense

This leafless specimen found in Central and South America and the West Indies clings to the trees of the rainforest. Clusters of white tubular flowers with brilliant orange centers connect together pointing in the shape of an arrow. Often photographed in the higher elevations of Brazil, these orchids prefer a temperate, wet climate with soft filtered light that typifies the growing conditions in Central America.

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Taeniophyllum Obtusum

Normally grown in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, the blunt stalk and miniscule flowers of this leafless orchid characterize the variety. Often considered difficult to grow because of the need for highly regulated humidity and temperature conditions, the efforts are worthwhile when multiple blooms appear. The yellow and white petals develop into a classic orchid shape although on a miniature level. A magnified group display  highlights the detailed beauty of the flowers that often seem to extrude from the roots of the plant.

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Kingidium Deliciousum

One of the prettiest varieties of the orchids without leaves, as the name implies, it looks almost delicious enough to eat. Ranging in color from white, cream and pink to deep corals this delicate looking orchid is a favorite in many growing societies. The plant originates in Indonesia and is often referred to as the slipper orchid. Exotic photos of the species as shown display the classic shape of this orchid that like others in the species emerges from a leafless stem that clings to tree trunks and bark lined forest debris.

The passion of growing orchids crosses all nationalities and regions. Although many of the common varieties can easily be found at local nurseries, with the right environment and patience, these leafless varieties provide hours of soothing satisfaction.

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Hundreds of variations, thousands of colors and hues and nothing short of magical when we nurture them to full bloom – orchids inspire us and renew our faith. Need proof? Keep reading!

1- Lycaste Michelli

The spectacular Lycaste Michelli – This Greek flower is pale, even in its lovely mustard and sage colors, dainty and many insist the definitive feminine flower. The flowers, when in bloom, tend to last a bit longer than traditional orchids. Aside from the unique yellow and green hues, this beautiful bloom can also be found in off-white. Sturdy and resistant to the occasional night frost, these beauties need high light and moist conditions. Most often found in Mexico, they’re now being grown in the U.S.

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2- Laelia

The simple, yet elegant Laelia – With over fifty species, the Laelia is one of the most recognized orchids to be found anywhere. A favorite because of its narrow petals, we’re particularly fond of the shades of reds and purples. With many hybrids and a myriad of colors, this sweet bloom can be found in the US, Mexico, Cuba and Brazil.

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3- Bamboo Orchid (Arundina Graminifolia)

The classic Bamboo Orchid – A late summer – early fall bloomer, these bloom in bunches or clusters in colors ranging from purple to red to yellow to white. Most commonly found in Panama and Costa Rica, they’re migrating across the globe. Considered endangered in Singapore due to the decline of rainforests, great strides are being made to save this stunning bloom.

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4- Slipper Orchids

Slipper Orchids – Their petals are most often referred to as pouches. They’re designed by Nature this way to catch insects. Still, their beautiful three pouches that provide a burst of color on each petal hide its magical purposes for the pouches. Its family is the Orchidaceae. Although found in the U.S. and in fact is the state flower for New Hampshire, it’s native to Southeast Asia.

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5- Dendrobium

The fickle but pretty Dendrobium – Each diverse breed from this family of orchids has its own needs in terms of culture and nutrition, but the pay off is certainly worth it. With a bright burst of yellow petals and a splash of red smack dab in the middle, this is a lovely flower that once in bloom; one knows it was worth the wait.

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6- Vanda

The magical Vanda – This small but mighty purple bloom, with petals much smaller than one might think would be found on an orchid, thrives in full sun and cooler climates. In fact, experts say the absence of light will surely doom this orchid, which would be a shame. Although it can endure the occasional and brief cold snap, they thrive in temperatures in the mid-50s and a humidity of around 80%. They’re sometimes grown in the southeast, provided the extreme heat and humidity isn’t a factor.

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7- Miltonia

The inspirational Miltonia – Sometimes referred to as pansy orchids due to their similarity to the traditional pansy, these easy to grow orchids are growing in popularity. Most often found in Ecuador and Panama, the patterns in any number of color variations, are nothing short of breathtaking. One important note for those wishing to grow the Miltonia – their petals are quite fragile and direct sunlight will result in burns.

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8- Odontoglossum

The fragile Odontoglossum- These tropical orchids grow well in high altitudes and the flowers are gorgeous. They require bright light and do better at altitudes of 2,000 feet and higher. The rewards offered by a successful bloom are priceless! The lovely pale and nearly translucent petal is spectacular.

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9- Stanhopea

The multi-tasking Stanhopea – Ah, a sight to behold! The stunning flowers, complete with narrow walkways for insects and catching mechanisms for water, they grown downward and give off a lovely scent. They require bright light, but direct sunlight is an absolute ‘must not’ as it will burn the tender petals. Temperatures should range between 50 and 80 degrees and they bloom mostly during the summer months.

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10- Gogeurt

Our final selection is the easy to grow Gogeurt. It’s one of the most recognizable flowers and has the trademark long and narrowing petals. They’re ideally grown in warmer climates, but are sturdy plants nonetheless and can bloom in temperatures as low as 55 degrees. These are ideal for those looking to choose a first orchid to nurture into full bloom and once you see the deep red blooms, you’ll be hooked.

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