20 Types Of Indoor Orchids To Liven Up Your Home

Orchids come in a lot of different shapes, sizes, scents, and optimum conditions. As there are over 9,000 classes of orchids that all have their species, it can be tough figuring out what orchids will grow in our homes. 

Unfortunately, not all orchids will thrive indoors. Some orchids need particular conditions to grow well. These may include water pH, lighting, ventilation, and humidity levels, which can only be amended in greenhouses and specific sites. 

Despite this, there are lots of orchids that can thrive indoors and don’t need particular tools or technical gardening knowledge. 

You’ll find X types of indoor orchids in this post. These are great to keep in offices, homes, and different indoor environments. 

Some of these are very easy to grow, ideal for beginners, while others take a bit more knowledge, better for those with a bit of experience.

Keep reading to discover the names of some fantastic indoor orchids!

1. Phalaenopsis – Moth Orchid

Moth orchids are some of the most popular orchids you’ll see sold today. They are great gifts for Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, graduations, and birthdays. 

Moth Orchids are very common, so you’ll often see them sold in grocery stores and department stores. If you want to keep one of these orchids indoors, like in your living room, you’ll need to concentrate on humidity and light.

An ideal place is a window sill that receives some light, but isn’t in the path of direct sunlight. Phalaenopsis thrive best in well-lit areas with a consistent air stream, where the noticeable sunlight lights up the room.

Another good place for a moth orchid is above your kitchen faucet, in the window. This is a nice location, provided that you are careful and don’t allow steam from boiling water to affect the plant’s leaves. The humidity levels around the sink will help the orchid thrive.

A tip to keep in mind is to avoid keeping near ripe oranges or bananas near the moth orchid. These are the worst kinds of fruit, but all near-ripe fruit will emit ethylene, a chemical gas. This is very dangerous for the orchid and can prevent it from blooming. 

If you would prefer to keep your moth orchid in the living room, instead of the kitchen, keep a humidity tray underneath it. Moth orchids prefer higher humidity levels, which is more than most indoor settings deliver. 

Phalaenopsis orchids are great beginner orchids.

Care Tips For Moth Orchids

• Originates From: The Philippines, Australia, South East Asia
• Flowering Time: Can bloom at any point. Some of these flower throughout the year.
• Fragrance: Delicate, sweet scent.
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light, but needs to be kept out of direct, hot sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally throughout the year. The potting medium should be damp, but not waterlogged. 
• Temperature Requirements: Keep a warm environment (70°F – 85°F) to make sure the plant blooms.
• Humidity Requirements: Supply careful misting and a humidity tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food every other watering.
• Rest Time: No resting necessities, but moderately cooler environments in fall are helpful.
• Easy to grow: Yes

2. Cattleya Orchid

Cattleyas are another type of orchid that does well inside. They are nice flowers to keep on mounts or connect to trees, as that is their most probable environment. 

One difficulty of Cattleyas is poor air circulation in your home. This orchid is adjusted to grow in windy settings, so it can start to rot if they don’t have enough ventilation.

If you have Cattleya in your home, keep a low fan operating at all times. If you’d rather not use a fan, you can keep the orchid on your outdoor patio between spring and fall. 

Remember to keep the orchid away from direct sunlight. The most the orchid can handle is some early morning sunlight. Hardiness zone locations between 10 and 12 are ideal for outdoors Cattleya. 

Bear in mind that if you leave the orchid outdoors, or use a fan indoors, the humidity levels will fall. 

This is a disadvantage as Cattleyas thrive in more humidity compared to Moth Orchids. Humidity trays won’t deliver enough, so if you leave the fan on at night and day, it’s best to use a humidifier.

Cattleyas thrive in humidity ranges between 40% and 70%. Indoor settings tend to be around 33%, and even less if you have an air-conditioned space. 

Another tip to keep in mind is that lots of new orchid hobbyists will keep their orchids in the bathroom, believing that the humidity levels are good for the plant. This is not recommended. 

Humidity levels in the bathroom are erratic. The space can be one of the drier areas in the home, then will quickly increase to full humidity for a few minutes. This discrepancy can prevent the orchid from blooming properly. 

This is also the same case with temperature. Bathroom humidity is usually the result of hot showers, which can quickly affect how orchids develop.

Care Tips For Cattleya Orchids

• Originates From: South America, Central America, Mexico, West Indies
• Flowering Time: Differs depending on type.
• Fragrance: Complex, ranging from floral to citrus
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep out of direct sunlight
• Water Requirements: Water liberally until potting medium is well soaked, but let the compost dry slightly between waterings
• Temperature Requirements: Keep medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.
• Humidity Requirements: Supply careful misting and a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Deliver a six-week rest period in winter, with minimum watering.
• Easy to grow: Hybrids are easy, but species are harder to grow. 

3. Paphiopedilum Orchid

Otherwise known as moccasin orchids and lady slippers, paphiopedilums are a terrestrial orchid genus. 

You can forget anything you know about orchid bark, perlite, and potting medium when handling Paphiopedilums. 

As they are terrestrial, the orchids behave like houseplants that are grown in soil. However, as they are orchids, do not use plant them in houseplant soil. 

A nice mixture for the potting medium is one part perlite and four parts bark. This mixture will deliver the right drainage levels that Paphiopedilums prefer, as well as make sure that the roots are constantly slightly damp. 

One primary issue with Paphiopedilums is watering them sufficiently, so they remain moist all the time. You’ll need to water these orchids a lot more compared to a Phalaenopsis. 

Paphiopedilums come in two main kinds. The first is a warm-growing variety that thrives between 70°F and 80°F. The second is a cool growing variety that does best between 65°F and 70°F. 

The warm growing types do better indoors, as the cool growing types need daytime temperatures that are cooler than comfortable. If you’re thinking about growing a Paphiopedilums indoors, remember to choose a warm growing type. 

Care Tips For Paphiopedilum

• Originates From: South East Asia
• Flowering Time: Differs, some of these flower throughout the year.
• Fragrance: None
• Light Requirements: Can handle lower light amounts than other orchids. Keep out of direct sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally. The potting medium needs to be damp all the time, but not waterlogged.
• Temperature Requirements: Varies, some prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Others prefer warm temperatures between 70°F and 85°F.
• Humidity Requirements: Use a humidity pebble tray. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate watering times. 
• Rest Time: No resting necessities, but feed and water a little less during wintertime. 
• Easy to grow: Common hybrids are easy to look after, but it’s harder to look after species.

4. Dendrobium Orchid

Dendrobiums are a type of orchid that prefers windows that become hot as the day continues. 

If all of your windows have similar conditions, keep your dendrobiums in one that faces south. If you want to keep it separate from your other orchids, keep a little humidifier by the dendrobium and switch it on at different points throughout the day. 

This is best because dendrobiums like hot temperatures and climates in the daytime, but need a cool breeze or wind at night to lower the temperatures back again.

A lot of orchids don’t do well in full sunlight, but dendrobiums differ, as long as this isn’t constant during the day. They will, however, need shade during the hottest portion of the day. This is why south-facing windows are best (if you’re located north of the equator).

Dendrobiums also require more fertilizer and water compared to other orchids. These are very greedy plants that will want a lot of sun, fertilizer, and water. They’ll also desire greater humidity levels between 50% and 70%, so they’ll need a humidifier too. 

These humidity levels are slightly higher than some of the other orchids here, so keep your humidifier nearer your Dendrobium. 

Care Tips For Oncidium Orchids

• Originates From: Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia.
• Flowering Time: Differs.
• Fragrance: Some emit fragrance, some don’t.
• Light Requirements: Needs a lot of light throughout the year, but needs to keep out of hot sun during summer.
• Water Requirements: Water liberally in summer, slightly less during spring, then not that much in wintertime.
• Temperature Requirements: Most prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Some types prefer medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.
• Humidity Requirements: Carefully mist without letting water pool in leaves. Use a humidity pebble tray. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate watering times. 
• Rest Time: Most need to rest, with a small amount of water to stop it drying up.
• Easy to grow: Some are easy to grow, while others aren’t.

5. Oncidium (Dancing Ladies)

Also known as Tiger Orchids or Dancing Ladies, Oncidiums are a giant orchid genus. There are around 300 orchids in this class which all have various hybrids. 

The flowers all differ between each plant, but in most cases, Oncidiums have large flower clusters on top of lengthy stems.

Oncidium orchids are available in a lot of shades, but they generally come in pink, green, purple, white, and yellow. The top portion of the flowers looks like a woman’s arms and torso, while the lavish lips look like a billowing skirt. 

If you’d like to keep an Oncidium indoors, look for stronger hybrids. This variety has a lot of specific needs and does better in temperature-managed greenhouses.

As there are so many Oncidium orchids available, it’s difficult to write one particular care guide. It’s best to research the type of Onchdium you want to grow, along with its necessary care guidelines. 

Care Tips For Oncidium Orchids

• Originates From: South America, Central America, West Indies, Costa Rice, Mexico
• Flowering Time: Most bloom in fall.
• Fragrance: Yes, vanilla-like aroma. 
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep out of direct sunlight
• Water Requirements: Hybrids need to be watered throughout the year and slightly less in wintertime. Species need to remain dry if they aren’t growing.
• Temperature Requirements: Most require cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°F or medium temperatures between 70°F and 85°F. Some like outdoor spells in summer. 
• Humidity Requirements: Supply careful misting and a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Hybrids don’t require rest. Species need to remain dry if they aren’t growing.
• Easy to grow: Common hybrids are easy to look after, but species are harder. 

6. Miltoniopsis Orchid

Miltoniopsis Orchids appear like small pansies, which is why they are also known as Pansy Orchids. They are found in the mountainous areas in the Andes, as well as around Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, where it rains a lot of the time.

Miltoniopsis adore water. If you want to give yourself a challenge with a semi-hydroponic approach, you should give this orchid a try. Whether you go for a semi or full hydroponic system, Miltonopsis will value the increased humidity and water levels.

If you are growing Pansy orchids inside, you need to be very rigid regarding cooler temperatures and water. Other factors are easier to tend to, like potting medium, fertilizer, and lighting. 

Humidity is one of the harder things to control. Humidity and watering are different from each other, but Miltoniopsis prefers both in greater amounts. You’ll need a humidifier and a humidity tray, as the orchids do best at 70% relative humidity. 

To avoid your wallpaper crumbling, it’s best to keep your humidifier and Miltoniopsis by a cool window, with the humidifier pointed straight at it. This maintains enough ventilation, instead of allowing the humidity to pool near the stem and crown. 

The cooler temperatures and humidity means that Miltoniopsis orchids are some of the harder ones to grow. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a different orchid until you become more comfortable with orchid care.

Wait until you’ve kept an orchid alive for a while, then move on to the Miltonopsis. When done right, you’ll end up with a big, pansy-like bloom. 

Care Tips For Miltoniopsis Orchids

• Originates From: Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru
• Flowering Time: Most bloom in fall or spring.
• Fragrance: Yes, rhubarb pie or rose-like aroma. 
• Light Requirements: Needs to be kept out of direct sunlight
• Water Requirements: Needs to stay moist, but not waterlogged, all the time.
• Temperature Requirements: Keep in cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°F.
• Humidity Requirements: Supply prudent misting and a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Not required, but reduce feeding and water slightly during winter.
• Easy to grow: Common hybrids are easy to look after, but species are harder. 

7. Brassia Orchid

Brassia orchids have spindly, long spikes, which look like spider legs. They also have a bloom lip which looks like a spider’s midsection,  which is why the orchid also goes by the name “Spider Orchid’. 

Brassia orchids have rows of flowers that form off of dangling spikes. They are usually a light, cream color with flecks of purple or brown running through. 

Most Brassia orchids reach around a foot in height, but some can reach enormous heights of up to one meter. These will need extra support to keep upright, as any weight may lead to the stalks breaking. 

Brassia orchids do well on a windowsill, but you’ll need to keep them out of direct sunlight with a light-diffusing cover, or simple net curtains. 

A common Brassia orchid is part of the Brassia verrucosa class. This is the traditional Spider Orchid that you’ll often see in stores. These can reach up to ten inches in height and emit a gorgeous fragrance that adds to any home.

When you water your Brassia orchid, let the soil dry out fully and give them a little less water in winter. Brassia orchids do best at medium temperatures but remember to stop fertilizing them when winter comes around. 

Care Tips For Brassia Orchids

• Originates From: South America, Central America, Mexico, West Indies
• Flowering Time: Late spring to the beginning of summer
• Fragrance: Yes, sweet, slightly spicy aroma
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light, but needs to be kept out of direct sunlight
• Water Requirements: Let the top of the soil dry before rewatering. Requires less water during winter. 
• Temperature Requirements: Some like cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°, others prefer medium temperatures between 65° and 75°.
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes, during winter, let the compost dry slightly and cease feeding.
• Easy to grow: Easy.

8. Bulbophyllum Orchids

As there are so many types of orchids around the world, you may come across a few weird and wonderful examples as you go. A few of these may be part of the Bulbophylum family. Many of these don’t look like classic orchids and can reach very impressive heights.

Bulbophyllum fletcherianum is an example that can reach up to six feet in height. This is one of the largest, with red and pink flowers that grow on their shrubs. However, keep in mind that their blooms can emit an unpleasant smell that lures in insects.

Another type that looks great in home hanging baskets is Bulbophyllum Elizabeth Ann’ Buckleberry. This orchid has small pink blooms that grow downwards, looking like an unusual creature.

The smell of Bulbophyllum orchids is a fascinating subject. Some smell nice, but several emit an unpleasant smell that draws in pollinating insects, like flies. This is why it’s best to buy these orchids in person. You can see if the smell is suitable for bringing into your home. 

Care Tips For Bubophyllum Orchids

• Originates From: America, Australia, South East Asia, Africa
• Flowering Time: Differs between each type, though usually from spring to fall
• Fragrance: Yes, some have a bad smell to lure pollinators, while others smell pleasant. 
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light during winter, but needs to be kept out of intense summer sunlight. Keep the plant in a shady space.
• Water Requirements: Water throughout the year, but leave to dry slightly between waterings.
• Temperature Requirements: Medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F are ideal.
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting with a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Doesn’t need rest, but water and feed slightly less during winter.
• Easy to grow: Majority are difficult, but a few are slightly easier. 

9. Boat Orchids (Cymbidium)

This type of orchid is loved by a lot of garden stores and florists. Boat orchids produce tall, straight flowers with blooms of every color, except for blue. 

Cymbidium orchid petals are generally circular and waxy to the touch. They have curved lips which look like boats, which is why these beautiful flowers are known are boat orchids.

If you are a beginner, it’s best to avoid native boat orchids until you gain more experience. There are lots of gorgeous hybrids to choose from instead, which can stand up better to temperature differences.

Boat orchids are very large, as they can grow up to five feet tall. They do best in a cold greenhouse environment, but they are relatively easy to care for if you have the right facilities. 

Conversely, small Cymbidium hybrids work well as houseplants. These can rise to a decent height between one and two feet. They produce nice flowers which can last a maximum of two months. 

Cymbidium Golden Elf is a nice example. This is a small hybrid that produces fragrant, bold, yellow flowers. 

Cymbidium orchids adore fresh air, so make sure that you give yours enough ventilation. 

Care Tips For Cymbidium Orchids

• Originates From: Tropical areas in Australia and Asia.
• Flowering Time: Generally between fall and early spring.
• Fragrance: Some produce fragrance, but not all.
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep out of direct sunlight during summer.
• Water Requirements: Water liberally, but don’t let the potting medium become waterlogged. Water a little less during winter. 
• Temperature Requirements: Miniatures need cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, or medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Standards need cool environments. 
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and use a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Doesn’t need rest, but feed and water slightly less. 
• Easy to grow: Species are harder, but hybrids are easier. 

10. Vuylstekeara (Cambria Orchids)

Cambria orchids are common hybrids that are often seen in grocery stores and garden shops. 

These orchids are the result of three types of orchids merging: Miltonia, Cochioda, and Odontoglossum. These are a good choice for inexperienced orchid growers as they don’t need rest and can resist a large range of temperatures. 

Cambria orchids can create large, impressive blooms that form on branched or single spikes. Most of these form bold white or red flowers with large yellow lips. You’ll be able to appreciate their beauty for multiple weeks. 

One example is the Vuylstekeara Cambria’ Plush’ This can produce as many as 12 blooms on every spike. If they are looked after properly, they can produce flowers several times during the year.

Vuylstekeara orchids are a hybrid variety, which means that they don’t originate from natural habitats. They normally flower in spring or in winter, but like to be kept in the shade when summer comes around. 

Care Tips For Cambria Orchids

• Originates From: Hybrid. 
• Flowering Time: Spring or winter.
• Fragrance: None.
• Light Requirements: Requires shade during summer.
• Water Requirements: Water liberally with lukewarm water, but avoid waterlogged soil. Water less during winter. 
• Temperature Requirements: Some need medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Others need cooler conditions between 60°F and 70°F.  
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and use a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Doesn’t need rest, but feed and water slightly less. 
• Easy to grow: Easy. 

11. Cockleshell (Encyclia Orchids)

Some types of Encyclia orchids have a usual orchid flower appearance, but several belong to the cockleshell class.

Cockleshell orchids have an inverted design that is particularly unique. Their lips lie on the top of the flower, while long and thin petals dangle downwards.

The blooms are found on the top of straight spikes are generally display pale shades of yellow, cream, and pink. Other than being attractive, their flowers also emit a lovely aroma.

A popular example of a cockleshell orchid is Encyclia cochleata, which also goes by the name Octopus Orchid. This produces a traditional cockleshell inverted pattern, along with long sepals that look like legs and a purple stripy lip on the top. 

Cockleshell orchids are ideal for new orchid growers as they are generally easy to grow. 

Care Tips For Cockleshell Orchids

• Originates From: South America, West Indies, Central America, Mexico
• Flowering Time: Majority flowers in the summertime.
• Fragrance: Yes. strong, sweet scent. 
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light throughout the year, but needs to be kept out of hot sunlight during summer.
• Water Requirements: Water liberally as it grows, but let the potting medium dry slightly between waterings.
• Temperature Requirements: Majority require cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Some need medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. 
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and use a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes. Give a small amount of water during winter to stop the stem from drying out. 
• Easy to grow: Easy. 

12. Epidendrum Orchids

These orchids are found on trees located in their native habitat. They have adapted to thrive in very small amounts of soil and don’t need a lot of nutrients to do well.

Epidendrum orchids are strong and can withstand a lot of temperatures. The exception here is freezing conditions, as these will make the plant die.

Epidendrum orchids usually produce reed-like stalks with groups of beautiful flowers in bold shades. Warmer hues of orange, yellow, red, bright pink, and purple are customary.

Practically all epidendrum orchids have the usual ruffled lip that’s connected to the column. This is the rod-like portion at the middle of the bloom. Some of these are in one main shade, but others have stripes and spot patterns.

One beginner-friendly example is the Epidendrum ibaguense. This has a distinct lip that resembles a little cross, which explains the plant’s other name, the Crucifix Orchid. This is very robust and produces groups of light, orange blooms on its stalks. These will lift your spirits for weeks on end!

Care Tips For Epidendrum Orchids

• Originates From: South America, West Indies, Central America, Mexico
• Flowering Time: Majority flowers in the spring or summertime.
• Fragrance: Delicate, sweet scent.
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light, but needs to be kept out of direct, hot sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally throughout the year. The potting medium should be damp, but not waterlogged. 
• Temperature Requirements: Keep a warm environment (70°F – 85°F) to make sure the plant blooms.
• Humidity Requirements: Supply careful misting and a humidity tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food every other watering.
• Rest Time: No resting necessities, but moderately cooler environments in fall are helpful.
• Easy to grow: Easy

13. Keikis

Keik’s is the Hawaiian term for baby seedlings that occasionally grow on Phalaenopsis orchids. These resemble different thin, divided stalks that produce a root network and small leaves. 

After the roots grow to roughly two inches long, you can separate the Keiki from its parent, then pot them in orchid potting mix. Keep misting frequently or cover the plant with a plastic bag to make sure they receive enough humidity.

You’ll need to wait some time until Keiko matures into a complete adult, but after two to three years, there should be a different Moth Orchid as part of your home orchid collection.

If you want to develop your Keiki into a mature plant, perform these steps.

1. Leave the Keiki on its parent plant until its roots reach one to three inches long. They should also have a few leaves and a small shoot. 
2. After the Keiki meets these guidelines, remove it from the parent orchid by cutting it one to two inches down its spike. Its roots will stay wrapped around the spike, but the portion where the Keiki forms should be detached from the original. 
3. Replant the Keiki in a different pot with a fresh potting blend. Lead its roots downwards and secure the baby orchid with the spike.
4. Give your Keiki a different label so you don’t forget its lineage. Some orchid growers prefer numerically labeling it to aid tracking. 
5. Keep misting the Keiki frequently and keep it out of direct sunlight. They will require greater humidity levels and less light than fully-grown orchids. 

Care Tips For Phalaenopsis Orchids

• Originates From: Tropical areas in Australia and Asia
• Flowering Time: Can bloom whenever, though some flower throughout the year 
• Fragrance: Yes, 
• Light Requirements: Likes bright light throughout the year, but needs to be kept out of hot sunlight during summer.
• Water Requirements: Water liberally as it grows, but let the potting medium dry slightly between waterings.
• Temperature Requirements: Majority require medium temperatures of 65°F and 75°F. Some kinds prefer cooler temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, while others prefer warm conditions between 70°F and 85°F. 
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and use a humidity pebble tray. Don’t let water pool in the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Not required, but feed and water slightly less during winter. 
• Easy to grow: Easy. 

14. Ludisia (Jewel Orchids)

Jewel orchids, also known as Ludisia orchids, produce interesting leaves. Many orchids don’t have very remarkable leaves, but jewel orchids have various shapes, delicate designs, and fascinating patterns. 

When jewel orchids produce flowers, they form small, tiny blooms that are incredibly beautiful. These look great when kept inside the home, as well as growing inside a terrarium. 

Planting Ludsias in a terrarium is one way of maintaining a vivid atmosphere throughout the year, even if they don’t blossom. 

Ludisa’s are also a nice choice for those that already grow African violets. These two plants have very similar growing conditions and patterns. 

One of the best advantages of jewel orchids is that they are terrestrial. They do well in soil, so if you have any remaining potting mixture from other plants, jewel orchids will adjust well to the different garden blends. 

Care Tips For Ludsia Orchids

• Originates From: Southeast and Southern Asia
• Flowering Time: Bloom during late fall and early spring
• Fragrance: Yes, light, pleasant aroma
• Light Requirements: Needs low light conditions to prevent leaf tips from burning. Bright diffused lighting works indoors; bright shady location works outdoors. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally as it grows, do not let the plant dry out. 
• Temperature Requirements: Prefers warmer temperatures above 50°F. 
• Humidity Requirements: Deliver prudent misting and use a humidity pebble tray. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes, feed and water slightly less during winter. 
• Easy to grow: Easy to care for. 

15. Phaius Orchid (Nun’s Orchid)

Despite being one of the easier-to-care types of orchids, Phaius orchids aren’t normally grown by beginner orchid growers. You can care for them as you would with your other houseplants, so you won’t need to learn any new skills to take care of them.

Phaius orchids produce big, strapping leaves with yellow, white, and purple blooms on their spikes. There are around 45 different varieties within this orchid class, the most popular being Phaius tancarvilleae. 

The only thing to keep in mind is that Phaius orchids don’t like misting their leaves. This differs from other orchids, as they like misting to maintain higher humidity levels. Phaius only needs its roots watered twice weekly in summer, then once weekly in winter. 

Another thing to consider before purchasing a Phaius orchid is that they grow very tall. This isn’t necessarily a disadvantage, but it means that they can’t be kept on a windowsill! Phaius orchids are best saved as regular houseplants, as you’ll need between two and three feet of room to keep the plant indoors. 

Care Tips For Phaius Orchids

• Originates From: Malaysia, Indonesia, China
• Flowering Time: Late winter to the beginning of spring
• Fragrance: Yes, pleasant, distinct aroma
• Light Requirements: Indirect, bright light throughout the year. 
• Water Requirements: Needs to stay moist, but avoid waterlogged potting medium.
• Temperature Requirements: Keep in medium temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Prefers cool winter conditions between 55°F and 60°F. 
• Humidity Requirements: Does best in moderate humidity. Use a humidity tray, but do not mist on the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes, reduce watering in late winter to early spring. 
• Easy to grow: Relatively easy, provided you stick to a proper care routine. 

16. Zygopetalum Orchids

Zygopetalum orchids form fragrant flowers between fall and spring, which is a nice sight to see during winter. The orchids are known for their gorgeous flowers, often producing vibrant blooms of maroon, olive, and purple. 

Zygopetalum orchids grow best when mounted compared to in a pot. These orchids hate waterlogged potting mixtures, as their roots will quickly give up. 

It’s important to use a rapid draining potting medium, as this quickly guides the water into and out of the pot. Mounting Zygopetalum orchids will ensure their roots stay dry amidst watering. 

Another point about Zygopetalums is you should avoid misting, as water droplets can leave spots on leaves if they stay wet. You can group the orchid with other plants to maintain a humid environment, as well as use a humidity tray to increase the humidity levels.

Care Tips For Zygopetalum Orchids

• Originates From: Central and South America
• Flowering Time: Most bloom between spring and fall.
• Fragrance: Yes, noticeable fragrance. 
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Keep soil slightly damp during growing season. Avoid getting leaves and pseudobulbs wet. 
• Temperature Requirements: Keep in warm temperatures between 70°F and 75°F during the day, then slightly cooler conditions between 60°F and 65°F during the night. 
• Humidity Requirements: Does best in moderate humidity above 50%. Use a humidity tray, but do not mist on the leaves. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes, reduce watering during wintertime to keep the plants dry. 
• Easy to grow: No, harder to grow as it is sensitive to poor growing conditions. 

17. Catasetum Orchid

Catastum orchids are ideal for anyone after interesting-looking houseplants that don’t need too much care. 

Catasetum orchids have big pseudobulbs that require prudent watering to guarantee proper growth. The orchids flower for a specific period and then enter a dormant phase when their leaves drop. They don’t need a lot of care during this dormant stage.

Catasetum orchids form female and male flowers, but it can be difficult to tell what species the female flowers are. They normally look alike in shape, often with a green-yellow hue.

It’s easier to tell what type of species the male flowers are, as these look very different from the female flowers. They also have a structural trigger that discards pollen on visiting pollinators. 

Catasetum orchids will find it hard to grow outdoors, unless you live in a humid, hot location. They do better as houseplants, but keep them inside containers for optimum results. 

You can hang the containers, keep them on raised platforms, or grow them using mounts to improve ventilation and airflow around the plant. 

Care Tips For Catasetum Orchids

• Originates From: Central and Northern South America
• Flowering Time: Between spring and the beginning of fall.
• Fragrance: Yes, noticeable fragrance. 
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally while leaves form, then reduce frequency as pseudobulb matures.  
• Temperature Requirements: Keep in warm temperatures between 80°F and 100°F during the day, then slightly cooler conditions between 60°F and 65°F during the night. 
• Humidity Requirements: Does best in moderate humidity between 40% and 60%. Use a pebble tree and maintain ventilation to avoid bacteria or fungus. 
• Food Requirements: Feed regularly during growth phase with a diluted, high-quality fertilizer. 
• Rest Time: Yes, needs long, dry rest when the leaves drop to avoid rot. Water lightly every three weeks to avoid the plant drying up. 
• Easy to grow: Yes, provided you maintain the right growing conditions. 

18. Lycaste Orchids

The Lycaste Orchid comes from tropical areas in South and Central America. There are roughly 30 different varieties of this orchid, many of which are robust, hardy plants. 

Lycaste Orchids have waxy, long-lasting flowers, that all have wide, pleated leaves. They produce medium flowers between two to three inches in size. They can produce, yellow, green, and orange blooms that all emit pleasant fragrances. 

Make sure you water Lycaste orchids frequently during the growing season, in summer. It’s also important to ensure the potting mix has dried fully before you rewater. The orchids are sensitive to leaf rotting and spotting, so take care to avoid watering their leaves. 

Care Tips For Lycaste Orchids

• Originates From: Tropical South and Central America
• Flowering Time: Winter and spring
• Fragrance: Yes, distinct citrus and cinnamon fragrance.
• Light Requirements: Needs indirect light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water freely during growing season, allowing potting medium to dry amidst waterings. 
• Temperature Requirements: Keep in warm temperatures between 60°F and 85°F.  Prefers night-time temperatures between 50°F and 60°F. 
• Humidity Requirements: Does best in higher humidity between 60% and 80%. Mist occasionally in summer, but maintain ventilation to prevent fungus. 
• Food Requirements: Feed with a half-strength plant food or orchid food at alternate waterings.
• Rest Time: Yes, stop feeding in September to begin winter rest.  
• Easy to grow: Relatively, provided you stick to a proper care routine. 

19. Vanda Orchids

Vanda orchids produce flowers in many colors, but they are known as one of the only types that form blue flowers. These blooms have flat petals and wandering roots that hold onto surrounding trees and objects. 

You’ll often notice Vanda orchids growing in orchid baskets, which can add a nice touch to your home decor. They are beautiful, but keep in mind that these aren’t the most beginner-friendly orchid on this list. 

Even well-versed growers can struggle to deliver optimum growing conditions at home. These include high temperatures, proper ventilation, bright light, and high humidity. Nevertheless, if you already grow other orchids and fancy a challenge, Vanda orchids may be the choice to help liven up your home. 

Care Tips For Vanda Orchids

1. Originates From: New Guinea, Southeast and East Asia
2. Flowering Time: Heaviest bloom season is from spring to fall, but it can flower throughout the year.  
3. Fragrance: Usually fragrant, with a sweet, jasmine-like aroma. 
4. Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. 
5. Water Requirements: Water liberally during growing season, but avoid potting mix from becoming waterlogged. 
6. Temperature Requirements: Prefers warmer temperatures above 65°F. 
7. Humidity Requirements: Does best in higher humidity between 60% and 80%. Use a pebble tray but avoid water pooling in roots. 
8. Food Requirements: Fertilize every week with a balanced fertilizer during growing season. 
9. Rest Time: Yes, reduce watering in fall and winter to once a week.   
10. Easy to grow: Harder to grow due to particular growing conditions. 

20. Psychopsis Orchids

Psychopsis orchids have an interesting look to them. Their blooms have long, narrow petals that resemble antennas, along with vivid sepals that look like wings. This is why the orchids are also known as ‘butterfly orchids’. 

The orchids originate from South and Central America. In these areas, they form on top of trees and plants, receiving most of their moisture and nutrients from the surrounding air. Despite this, Psychopsis orchids have adjusted to indoor growing conditions, making them a nice choice to try growing indoors. 

The orchids can flower frequently during the whole year. Healthy mature examples can have a lot of inflorescences with several blooms on each one. You may even see a single inflorescence blossoming constantly, for as many as ten years! 

A tip to keep in mind is that after you notice your Psychopsis orchid’s flowers dropping, do not remove the inflorescence until it falls by itself. It may continue to bloom later on, so it’s best to leave it to fall naturally. 

Care Tips For Psychopsis Orchids

• Originates From: Trinidad, South and Central America
• Flowering Time: Can flower regularly throughout the year.  
• Fragrance: No. 
• Light Requirements: Needs bright light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. 
• Water Requirements: Water liberally, but allow it to dry between waterings and avoid potting mix from becoming waterlogged. 
• Temperature Requirements: Prefers warmer temperatures of up to 90°F during the day, and above 60°F during the evening. 
• Humidity Requirements: Does best in higher humidity of up to 85%. Maintain adequate ventilation to avoid bacteria growth. 
• Food Requirements: Half strength, balanced fertilizer every week. Flush medium regularly. 
• Rest Time: None needed. 
• Easy to grow: Relatively easy to grow. 

Final Thoughts

Those were our pick of the best orchids to try growing indoors! 

You may have seen some of these, like the Phalaenopsis, readily available in stores. Others, like cockleshell orchids, are less common, but have an interesting appearance. 

If you are a beginner, keep in mind that it can be difficult growing some of the examples on this list. 

These may be great if you’re up for a challenge, but if you are new to orchid growing, go for some of the basic orchid types instead. This will save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run! 

We hope you enjoy growing some of these types of indoor orchids at home! 

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