Orchids of Thailand

Thailand's orchids: the country's status as a global orchid center, native and cultivated varieties, the Dendrobium and Vanda families, orchids in markets and export, and where to see them.

Thailand and the orchid

If one flower is synonymous with Thailand, it's the orchid. Thailand is one of the world's great orchid countries — home to a wealth of native species and a global powerhouse of orchid cultivation and export. From wild forest orchids to the cascading sprays sold on every corner, orchids are everywhere.

The orchid families you'll meet

• Dendrobium: the workhorse of Thai orchid growing — the sprays of purple, white and pink you see in markets, garlands and hotel lobbies, and a major export flower;
• Vanda: spectacular, large-flowered orchids in vivid blues, purples and spotted patterns — showpieces of Thai horticulture;
• Mokara, Aranda and hybrids: vibrant cultivated crosses bred for color and cut-flower use;
• Native wild orchids: Thailand's forests hold hundreds of native orchid species, from tiny epiphytes to striking blooms — some rare and protected (please never buy wild-collected orchids).

Orchids in Thai life & trade

• A global export: Thailand is a leading exporter of tropical cut orchids and orchid plants — a significant horticultural industry;
• Everyday beauty: orchids appear in garlands (phuang malai), offerings, decoration and gifts — affordable, abundant and beloved;
• Orchid farms & gardens: orchid nurseries and gardens (around Chiang Mai, Bangkok and elsewhere) are popular attractions where you can see the range up close (where to see them).

For the curious

• Epiphytes: many orchids grow on trees (not in soil), drawing moisture from the humid air — which is why they thrive in Thailand's climate;
• Year-round: with so many types, some orchids are in bloom in Thailand essentially all year (calendar);
• Growing them: notes for tropical gardeners on growing Thai flowers.