Gone are the days when orchids were considered a luxury reserved only for the elite. Nowadays, you’ll find at least one of these exotic beauties on almost every windowsill across the country! But before you head out to pick one up, it’s a good idea to get a feel for the different price points and what you’re actually paying for.
Quality Standards
No matter which variety catches your eye, there are a few quality “must-haves” to look for. First off, skip the tiny seedlings. You want a plant that has already bloomed at least once. In garden centers, look for plants labeled as “blooming size”—this ensures they are mature enough to show off those gorgeous flowers.
Take a close look at the plant’s overall health, too. The leaves should be a rich, vibrant green and feel firm to the touch. If you see wilted, shriveled, or wrinkled leaves, that’s a red flag that the plant is thirsty or stressed. Don’t forget to check out the aerial roots! Healthy roots should look silvery or green and feel nice and plump, not mushy or dried out.
Price Differences by Variety
Orchid prices aren’t just about the name on the tag; they also depend on how the plant was grown. Generally, you’ll find two main types:
- Epiphytic orchids
- Terrestrial orchids
Price Guide: Epiphytic Orchids
Epiphytic orchids are the “air plants” of the tropical rainforest, naturally growing high up on trees and rocks.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for some of the most popular epiphytic varieties:
- The famous Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) is a total steal, often starting around $12.
- Miltonia hybrids usually start at about $15.
- Lycaste hybrids and the fragrant Epidendrum orchids run a bit higher, starting around $18.
- Dendrobium orchids typically follow at about $20.
- Cattleya hybrids usually start around $22.
- The stunning Vanda hybrids are on the higher end, often starting at $30 or more.
Specialty Breeds and Premium Prices
Keep in mind that these prices are just rough estimates. If you’re looking for a specific designer breed, the price tag can jump significantly. For example, a “Lycaste Red Jewel” might go for $55. Even a standard Phalaenopsis can cost $20 to $30 if it has multiple flower spikes.
Price Guide: Terrestrial Orchids
Unlike their tree-dwelling cousins, terrestrial orchids prefer to keep their roots in the ground. Here’s a breakdown of common terrestrial varieties:
- The Pleione peinonoides is very budget-friendly, often found for just $3 to $4.
- Serapias and the hardy Marsh Orchid (Dactylorhiza) usually start around $12 or $13.
- The Military Orchid (Orchis militaris) can be found for about $16.
- Real Vanilla orchids (yes, where the beans come from!) usually cost around $19.
- The tropical Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum) typically retails for about $20.
- Hardy Garden Lady’s Slippers (Cypripedium) are a bit more of an investment, starting around $30.
The Sky’s the Limit
Just like with any hobby, you can spend as much as you want on orchids! There’s really no upper limit when it comes to rare hybrids. A particularly stunning Pleione hybrid might jump from $4 to $30, and a rare Cypripedium micranthum can easily set you back $80 or more.
