While most orchids aren’t exactly “sun worshippers,” they still crave a bright, sunny spot to really thrive. Very few species can handle being stuck in the deep shade all day long. If you’ve got a darker corner you’re looking to brighten up, let’s take a closer look at which orchids can actually handle lower light levels.
Orchids and Sunlight
Because most orchids hail from tropical rainforests, they are naturally used to bright conditions. However, high up under the thick canopy of giant jungle trees, they are mostly shielded from harsh, direct midday sun. To get those stunning blooms and healthy growth we all love, a certain amount of light and sun intensity is absolutely essential.
Orchids for Shady Spots
Only a handful of orchid species will tolerate a spot that stays in the shade all day. If you’re working with less light, keep an eye out for these:
- The “Spider Orchid” (Brassia)
- The “Pansy Orchid” (Miltonia)
- The “Toothed Tongue Orchid” (Odontoglossum)
- Masdevallia, which is also one of the few orchids that prefers cooler temperatures.
Shade-Tolerant Outdoor Orchids
It’s not just indoor plants! There are also several outdoor orchids that do perfectly fine in shady or semi-shady garden spots. These species are native to Central Europe, which means they are naturally winter-hardy and can handle the frost:
- The Yellow Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium calceolus), a stunning native variety.
- Orchis (Marsh Orchids), which includes over 40 different species.
- Helleborines (Epipactis), often found in woods and meadows.
- The Mountain Orchid.
These beauties feel right at home in semi-shady garden beds or spots with dappled sunlight. They’re actually great for planting under trees or larger shrubs and hedges. Just a pro-tip: make sure you check your soil conditions first and prep the ground so it’s just right for them!
Can Phalaenopsis Handle the Shade?
The most popular orchid out there, the Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis), isn’t the best candidate for deep shade. While they are hardy, putting one in a north-facing window only works if the room still gets plenty of indirect light. If it’s too dark, you might find yourself waiting a long time for new flowers.
Don’t Forget the Humidity!
Even if your orchid is a shade-lover, it still needs plenty of moisture in the air. To really mimic that tropical or subtropical vibe they love, aim for a humidity level of at least 60%—honestly, the higher, the better! This rule applies across the board, whether your orchid is soaking up the sun or chilling in the shade.
