Hailing from the lush depths of the rainforest, exotic orchids come in thousands of different species and varieties. They don’t just vary in how they grow, but also in the incredible design of their flowers. While we often think of big, showy blooms, some of the most charming orchid species actually feature tiny, delicate flowers.
The Many Faces of Orchid Blooms
The sheer variety of orchid species is mind-blowing, especially when you look at their flowers. Depending on which species you choose, you’ll find a massive range of shapes, colors, and sizes. Sometimes, the smallest flowers are the ones that truly steal the show!
Orchid Species with Tiny Flowers
If you’re looking for orchids that keep things dainty, there are a few standout species known for their miniature blooms. Some of the most popular ones include:
- The “Snowstorm” Orchid
- Doritis pulcherrima
- Platystele misasiana
The Snowstorm Orchid
The Snowstorm Orchid (botanically known as *Oncidium* ‘Tiny Twinkle’) is a real crowd-pleaser. It produces a cloud of tiny individual flowers, usually in shades of white or cream, that look just like a flurry of snow.
Doritis pulcherrima
The *Doritis pulcherrima* ‘Alba’ looks a lot like the classic Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) we all know and love. In fact, when it comes to care, these two are almost identical, making it a great choice for beginners.
Platystele misasiana
If you want to see a true record-breaker, look no further than *Platystele misasiana*. This species holds the title for the smallest flowers of all known orchids—we’re talking blooms that are less than 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) wide!
Caring for Small-Flowered Orchids
Generally speaking, orchids with small flowers need the same love and attention as their large-flowered cousins. Consistency is key!
Miniature Orchids
Beyond the species that naturally grow small flowers, many breeders and nurseries offer “mini” versions of popular orchids. Miniature Phalaenopsis, for example, are created by crossing them with wild species to keep them small. Because the plant itself stays tiny, the flowers stay small and compact, too.
In addition to the well-known Moth Orchids, there are some exotic species that are perfect for a mini-collection, such as:
- Barkeria
- Angraecum (which has some seriously unique flower shapes!)
How to Care for Mini Orchids
For the most part, mini orchids have the same requirements for location and general care as full-sized plants.
The main thing to watch out for is the pot size. Because the plant and its root ball are so compact, a small pot (usually about two inches in diameter) is plenty. Just remember that even these little guys need regular repotting to stay healthy and happy!
