Orchid

Orchids are a diverse and widespread family of flowering plants, the Orchidaceae, with blooms that are often colorful and fragrant. Along with the Asteraceae, they are one of the two largest families of flowering plants.

Orchids are found in nearly every habitat except permanent ice caps, growing mostly in the tropics, though they are also found in temperate regions. Most orchids are epiphytes, growing on the surfaces of other plants, especially trees, in tropical and subtropical forests. Others are terrestrial, growing in soil, or lithophytes, growing on rocks.

Orchid flowers are characterized by their bilateral symmetry, with three sepals and three petals. One petal, called the labellum or lip, is highly modified and often serves to attract pollinators. The reproductive organs of the orchid are fused into a single structure called the column.

Orchids employ a wide range of pollination strategies, relying on insects, birds, and other animals. Many orchids have highly specialized relationships with their pollinators, often mimicking the appearance or scent of female insects to attract males. Some orchids are even self-pollinating.

Orchids are highly prized by collectors and gardeners, and many species are cultivated for their ornamental value. Vanilla, a flavoring derived from the pods of Vanilla planifolia, is one of the most economically important orchids.

The conservation of orchids is a concern, as many species are threatened by habitat loss and over-collection. International agreements, such as CITES, regulate the trade of orchids to help protect wild populations.