What to give that special person for Valentine’s Day this February? Why not an orchid?
Moth orchids (phalaenopsis hybrids) are easy to grow, and their beautiful pendulous stalks covered in a dozen or so wide, moth-like flowers are a common sight today. They are of course not the only orchid variety, and given that there are around 30,000 species of orchid known to date, there is still a good deal of variety for the customer to choose from.
What a perfect gift for that significant other in your life! Whatever variety you choose – there are many colours available – you are sure to find something that has exquisite patterns and intricate flower structures.
Flower colours have long been associated with certain emotions and for orchids the same holds true. White is the symbol of purity, beauty and innocence; choose this colour for someone dear to your heart. Pink conveys happiness, joy and youthfulness; this colour might suit a teenage daughter. Purple is a regal colour, conveying respect and admiration; choose this colour for a mother or grandmother. Lavender speaks of grace and elegance; opt for this hue for a mother, favourite aunt or a sister. Yellow denotes friendship and also new beginnings, perfect for a special friend, a favourite sibling or a new romantic partner.
You can also get away from straight single colours and find multi-coloured or “splash-petal” orchid, both as moth orchids and in another popular orchid: the pansy orchid (miltoniopsis). The latter often have very beautiful “waterfall” patterns on their pansy-like petals. Lady slipper orchids (paphiopedilams) have a delicate pouch to the flower, are easy to grow, and again come in many colours.
This Valentine’s Day (Sunday) will be the second day of the Victoria Orchid Society’s Orchid Show and Sale, held each year at Our Lady of Fatima Hall, 4635 Elk Lake Drive and proudly sharing its proceeds with the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. Come join us on the Saturday (February 13th). It may give you an idea for the perfect gift for that special person!
