Orchids are one of God’s most exotic creations. The blooms are mesmerizing and long lasting too. If orchid growing is on your wishlist, then this is just the column for you!
Yes, you can grow some hardy varieties of orchids in Delhi. But first, let us get acquainted with these beautiful plants.
The world of orchids is a very fascinating one.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the vanilla essence we use in our cakes and ice creams comes from the vanilla orchid – Vanilla planifolia – The greenish yellow flowers smell deliciously of vanilla but are short lived (the blooms last only for a day). Hence to be able to harvest vanilla pods, from which the essence is derived, they are hand pollinated.
Many orchids are highly fragrant and can smell like cinnamon, chocolate, lemons, roses, hyacinths, raspberries, and even coconuts.
Did you know orchid flowers have amazing shapes too. To name a few- monkey faced, naked man, dancing lady, lady’s slipper, flying duck, tiger orchids and so many more.
Orchid flowers resemble animals and there is an insect that looks like an orchid – The Malaysian Orchid Mantis is very colourful and its body parts resemble orchid petals. Though white in colour, it turns itself into shades of pink and purple to look like orchids and thus deceives and lures pollinating insects like butterflies and bees, who stop for nectar and become prey to the clever hunter.
The enchanting realm of orchids never ceases to amaze me. Starting from January 2023, over the next few months, I shall take you through the journey of various varieties of Orchids that can be grown in Delhi. Do keep reading to learn about which ones to grow and how.
by Abha Batra (98114 17012)
